Suspicious Referee? Legendary Collina Responds to Trump's Harsh Accusations

Donald Trump played a significant role in overturning Folarin Balogun's suspension for his foul on Bosnia and Herzegovina player Tarik Muharemović. Referee Raphael Claus initially issued a red card after a VAR review, but FIFA later rescinded the decision, allowing the American to play in the subsequent match.

"It wasn't a foul... it was a collision of two guys going full speed and accidentally running into each other. That referee is a bit suspicious. If you look at his past, I don't want to say it because I don't like to stir up controversy, but he is very suspicious," stated the US President.

"FIFA considers Raphael Claus to be one of the world's leading professional referees and a valuable member of our structures. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.

Raphael Claus is officiating matches at his second World Cup, having previously been with us in Qatar in 2022. He is an experienced and highly respected referee, and we have full confidence in him as a reliable official," stated Pierluigi Collina, Chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee, in his declaration.

Despite Folarin Balogun being cleared to play in the World Cup Round of 16, it ultimately didn't help the United States national team. Mauricio Pochettino's squad fell 4-1 to Belgium and were eliminated from the tournament.