Balogun: I Knew Trump's Intervention Would Cause a Stir

US striker Folarin Balogun has addressed the infamous incident surrounding his red card at the 2026 World Cup. As is widely known, he was sent off during the 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, but the decision was overturned after intervention from Donald Trump. The former US President himself admitted to having a phone conversation with FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding the matter.

Balogun told CBS: "Initially, I was happy to be back with the team, but then I thought about it and realized it would create a lot of controversy. I sensed nervousness among my teammates too, because this isn't something you see often. The closer the match got, the more I tried to concentrate. I tried, but I couldn't. There was just too much noise."

However, Balogun still believes his red card for the challenge on Tarik Muharemovic was unwarranted.

"I was shocked; it wasn't even a proper tackle. I was surprised, and that was clear to see. But I had to accept the decision and just support my teammates. I didn't do it on purpose, and it shouldn't have been a red card. It was an unpleasant situation that put more pressure on us than necessary," he added.

Ultimately, Balogun played in the Round of 16 match against Belgium, where the US team suffered a crushing 4-1 defeat. It was also revealed today that the human rights group "FairSquare" has filed a complaint with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), alleging that FIFA President Gianni Infantino violated rules on political neutrality in his dealings with President Trump.

The Times newspaper reported that disciplinary committee chairman Mohamed Al Kamali made the crucial decision to suspend Balogun's ban unilaterally, despite never having been the sole arbiter in published disciplinary cases before. FIFA has not offered an explanation for why the ban was overturned.