Belgian FA responds to FIFA’s final decision on Folarin Balogun’s ban
The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) has spoken out after FIFA turned down its appeal against letting Folarin Balogun play in the World Cup round of 16, even though he was sent off in the previous game.
On Sunday, July 5, FIFA announced it had suspended Balogun’s one-match ban—received after his red card in the 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina—for one year. This means Balogun was allowed to play against Belgium.
FIFA explained the decision by referring to Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. Their statement said that the suspension is on hold for a probation period of one year. If Balogun breaks a similar rule during this time, the suspension will be enforced, and he could face further penalties.
Fans, experts, and even managers were unhappy with the decision. UEFA said FIFA had “crossed a red line” and called the move “incomprehensible and unfair.”
After reports that former US President Donald Trump personally contacted FIFA, he spoke about the issue on Monday, July 6, saying he asked FIFA to review the decision. Trump said, “I’m the one who got them to do it. It wasn’t Biden. I got them to do it.”
Earlier on Monday, the RBFA filed an appeal and issued strong statements saying they were “astonished by the decision.” But FIFA’s Appeals Committee rejected the appeal, saying the RBFA wasn’t involved in the original case and therefore couldn’t appeal.
The RBFA responded again, accusing FIFA of breaking its own rules by not providing reasons for the decision. They said they haven’t received the explanation, the referee’s report, or other documents they requested.
The RBFA also told the US Soccer Federation that they still question Balogun’s eligibility if he appears on the team sheet, leaving the door open for further action.
If the USA beats Belgium in Seattle, they will reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 2002.