FIFA’s decision to lift the suspension of US star Folarin Balogun has sent shockwaves through the soccer community. The 25-year-old forward was given a red card in a match against Bosnia-Herzegovina, but FIFA has now lifted the automatic one-game ban, citing article 27 of its disciplinary code.
Background
Balogun, who was born in New York to Nigerian parents and plays in the French league, is a key player for the US team. His commitment to play for the US was seen as a coup, and he has led the team’s World Cup scoring with three goals.
The controversy surrounding Balogun’s suspension began when he stepped on an opponent’s ankle in a match against Bosnia-Herzegovina. The referee’s decision to give him a red card was disputed, with many arguing that the foul was not intentional.
Trump’s Involvement
President Donald Trump has been accused of interfering in the decision to lift Balogun’s suspension. Trump, who has a well-known relationship with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, made a call to Infantino before the decision was made. Trump defended his actions, saying he simply pointed out that the referee’s call was a bad one and warranted a closer look.
Infantino has denied that Trump’s call had any influence on the decision, saying that the disciplinary committee acted independently and based its decision on the applicable regulations and the specific facts of the case.
Reactions
The decision to lift Balogun’s suspension has been met with criticism from some in the soccer community. The Belgian soccer federation, whose team was set to play the US in the next match, has expressed outrage and disappointment at the decision. Other prominent soccer voices, including former England great Wayne Rooney, have also spoken out against the decision.
However, not everyone is critical of the decision. Some have argued that the referee’s call was indeed a bad one and that Balogun did not deserve to be suspended. Former Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimović has welcomed the decision, saying that Balogun should not have been given a red card in the first place.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
