FIFA President Gianni Infantino spoke on Monday about his conversation with President Donald Trump concerning the one-match suspension of US World Cup player Folarin Balogun. Infantino noted that FIFA’s judicial body operates independently and makes decisions based on its Disciplinary Code, regardless of outside opinions.
In his statement, Infantino mentioned that he routinely engages with various world leaders, including Trump. He clarified that legal processes were underway regarding Balogun’s situation and that it would be resolved by the appropriate authorities. “That’s just how FIFA works,” he said. Infantino also acknowledged that he sometimes finds the FIFA Disciplinary Committee’s decisions surprising, but he respects the autonomy of those verdicts, emphasizing that maintaining integrity and credibility is essential for FIFA.
Balogun received a red card in a recent match after a VAR review deemed he had stepped on an opponent’s ankle. Initially, it appeared he would be suspended for the upcoming game against Belgium, but FIFA ultimately decided on a one-match suspension.
While addressing the matter in the Oval Office, Trump expressed his disbelief over the red card decision, stating, “I thought it was two great athletes colliding.” He felt that not allowing Balogun to play would have been a significant loss for the championship, stressing that having the best players on the field is crucial, regardless of the outcome.
Trump maintained that had a player of similar stature, like Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo, faced the same situation, he would have supported their participation as well. He questioned the referee’s authority in issuing the red card, expressing frustration over the decision-making process and the implications for the game.
The appeal made by Belgium regarding this decision was dismissed later on Monday.
