FIFA has rejected France's appeal to rescind Michael Olise's yellow card, leaving the Bayern Munich star at risk of missing the World Cup semi-final. The decision comes days after FIFA suspended Folarin Balogun's red card following a personal request from U.S. President Donald Trump, sparking outrage among rival nations.
Olise's Yellow Card Stands
The French Football Federation (FFF) appealed the yellow card shown to Olise during the round of 16 match against Paraguay. Replays suggested Olise only held the opponent's shirt and did not make contact with his face, but FIFA upheld the booking. France head coach Didier Deschamps confirmed the appeal was rejected.
"There was no change with Olise's yellow card," Deschamps said. "We received from FIFA a decision this morning that Olise's yellow card remains."
Trump's Intervention Sparks Controversy
Trump's request to FIFA president Gianni Infantino led to the suspension of Balogun's one-match ban under Article 27 of FIFA regulations, allowing the U.S. striker to play against Belgium. The USA ultimately lost 4-1, but the decision has been criticized as preferential treatment.
England was reportedly considering a similar appeal for Jarell Quansah's red card against Mexico but may avoid it due to the risk of an extended ban.
France's Semi-Final Hopes
Olise, alongside seven-goal star Kylian Mbappe, has been instrumental in France's campaign. Victory against Morocco in the quarter-final would set up a likely semi-final against Spain, with a potential final against England or Argentina on July 19. Deschamps must decide whether to risk Olise, who would be suspended for the semi-final if booked.
France has alternatives in Bradley Barcola, Ousmane Dembele, and Desire Doue if Olise is benched.
