'That wasn't a foul' - Trump on Fifa overturning red card ban

July 6, 2026

US President Donald Trump has confirmed that he personally contacted FIFA regarding a red card issued to American soccer player Folarin Balogun during a recent match. The 25-year-old striker, who leads the US team with three tournament goals, received a straight red card after committing a foul against a Bosnia-Herzegovina defender in a game last week. Following Trump's intervention, FIFA suspended Balogun's one-game suspension that would have resulted from the red card.

Who is affected

Folarin Balogun (25-year-old US striker)
US national soccer team
Bosnia-Herzegovina defender (who was fouled)
FIFA (football's governing body)
President Donald Trump

What action is being taken

FIFA is suspending (overturning) Balogun's one-game red card ban.

Why it matters

This situation demonstrates unprecedented presidential involvement in international sports disciplinary decisions and raises questions about political interference in athletic governance. It particularly matters because Balogun is the US team's top scorer at the tournament with three goals, making his availability crucial for the team's success.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC