Fifa accuses Uefa of hypocrisy in latest war of words over Folarin Balogun decision
Summary
Fifa defended its decision to lift the suspension of USA striker Folarin Balogun after he received a red card, saying this kind of action is common in football leagues. Uefa criticized Fifa, saying overturning the suspension breaks World Cup rules and affects the competition’s fairness. The case involved lobbying from President Donald Trump and high-level officials, but Fifa says its disciplinary committee acted independently.Key Facts
- Folarin Balogun, a USA soccer player, had his red card suspension lifted by Fifa before a World Cup match against Belgium.
- Uefa called this decision “crossing a red line” because World Cup rules automatically suspend players after red cards.
- Fifa said overturning red cards is common in many football leagues and defended their decision as balanced and normal.
- The disciplinary committee did not cancel the red card but suspended its effect for probation.
- President Donald Trump and other White House officials lobbied Fifa to review Balogun’s suspension.
- Fifa’s executive president, Gianni Infantino, denied involvement in the decision.
- The disciplinary committee explained its process is independent from Fifa’s executive branch.
- This is the first time such a last-minute red card suspension lift has happened at a World Cup.
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