The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has revoked the red card shown to United States striker Folarin Balogun during the Round of 16 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina at the 2026 World Cup. The decision allows the player to be available for the USA versus Belgium match.

According to reports by The Athletic and The New York Times, President Donald Trump contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino to request the suspension be lifted. Trump subsequently commented on the decision via his social media platform Truth Social, writing that FIFA had acted according to justice and remedied a serious injustice.

FIFA sources, however, denied that the White House intervention led to the revocation, citing the conclusions of the independent disciplinary commission and the powers provided under Article 27 of the FIFA regulations. The body described the commission's process as independent.

The Belgian national team and media expressed surprise and dissatisfaction with the decision. Belgian media reported strong reactions, and former player Radja Nainggolan was quoted as saying that this is not football.

The case is unusual in the context of the World Cup, as there appears to be no precedent for a head of state intervening with FIFA over a disciplinary matter. The debate over whether the revocation was independent of external pressure remains open.

This article triangulates coverage from ANSA, Il Giornale, la Repubblica, and Libero.