USA striker Folarin Balogun has been hit with a $40,000 (approximately £30,000) fine by FIFA just hours before the World Cup last-16 match against Belgium, despite his red card being suspended. The fine comes after US President Donald Trump admitted he called FIFA to request a review of the dismissal.
According to Sky News Sports Correspondent Rob Harris, the fine was imposed over Balogun's red card in the group stage match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, and half of the amount is payable by the U.S. Soccer Federation.
Red Card Controversy and Trump's Intervention
Balogun was sent off during the clash with Bosnia and Herzegovina, sparking controversy. On Sunday, July 5, FIFA announced that the automatic one-match ban for the red card had been suspended, allowing Balogun to play against Belgium. However, Belgium appealed the decision unsuccessfully.
President Trump stated that he asked for the dismissal to be reviewed, adding that he would have felt the match against Belgium was “rigged” if Balogun had been unable to play. The president's phone call to FIFA has drawn significant attention, but the governing body still proceeded with the financial penalty.
Fine Details and Timing
The fine was levied just hours before the USA's crucial World Cup encounter with Belgium. The U.S. Soccer Federation is responsible for half of the $40,000 penalty. Balogun's availability for the match remains unaffected, as the suspension was already lifted.
This development adds another layer to the ongoing debate about the red card decision and the influence of political figures in football matters. FIFA has not commented further on the fine or Trump's involvement.
