Thomas Tuchel is reportedly furious after FIFA extended Jarell Quansah's suspension to two World Cup matches, prompting England to lodge a formal complaint. The decision, announced on Thursday by FIFA's disciplinary committee, has left the England manager demanding answers over the process.
FIFA's Ruling and Tuchel's Reaction
FIFA's disciplinary committee imposed a two-match ban on Quansah for serious foul play during England's World Cup match against Mexico on 5 July 2026. The defender was sent off after a challenge on Jesus Gallardo. According to Sky Sports, Tuchel's frustration stems from referee Alireza Faghan being shown a still photograph of the incident rather than video footage. Tuchel argues that video evidence would have shown Quansah winning the ball before contact, which could have been considered a mitigating factor under IFAB regulations.
FIFA's statement read: "The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has imposed the following sanction on England's national-team player Jarell Quansah, who was sent off as a result of a direct red card during the FIFA World Cup 2026 match between Mexico and England played on 5 July 2026 at Mexico City Stadium: 2-match suspension for a breach of article 14 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code."
England's Formal Complaint
The Football Association has made a formal representation to FIFA, arguing that the VAR process was not correctly followed. However, England are powerless to challenge the verdict directly. Quansah will miss the quarter-final against Norway and, if England progress, a potential semi-final against Switzerland or Argentina.
Tuchel is also reportedly furious over FIFA's decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's ban for 12 months, which he believes highlights inconsistency in disciplinary rulings. He said: "To be clear it was not a red card. VAR got involved. The decision is made. Who overturns this decision and when and on what grounds? It's strange for me. We want consistency."
Wider Disciplinary Concerns
Tuchel raised further concerns about the lack of consistency in FIFA's disciplinary process, citing Declan Rice's yellow card against Mexico and France's failed appeal to rescind Michael Olise's booking. He questioned: "Does France get the yellow card back for Olise which was not a yellow card? Where does this start and where does this end?"
England also face disciplinary risks with Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, Nico O'Reilly, and Harry Kane all walking a tightrope, each one yellow card away from suspension. France's Olise will be suspended for a potential semi-final if he receives another caution against Morocco.
Express Sport has approached The FA for comment on the matter.
