2026 World Cup: Donald Trump reignites controversy surrounding Balogun's overturned red card

The controversy surrounding Folarin Balogun's expulsion during the 2026 World Cup is far from over. While the decision to overturn the American striker's red card had already sparked numerous reactions, US President Donald Trump himself reignited the debate during a press conference held alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

Speaking to the media, the American official humorously addressed his involvement in the case, which had generated considerable controversy after the United States' 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 16. Folarin Balogun, who was sent off during that match, ultimately had his suspension overturned, allowing him to play in the next round.

Donald Trump recounted contacting Gianni Infantino after the expulsion. In an ironic tone, he explained that he had asked the FIFA president to let the American striker play, before clarifying that he was joking. He did, however, acknowledge expressing his disagreement with the referee's decision, while stating that he didn't know what the outcome of the case would be.

Continuing his remarks, the American president asserted that this decision had ultimately provoked no real controversy, recalling that the United States had subsequently been soundly defeated by Belgium, ending their run in the competition. He then took the opportunity to take a swipe at Gianni Infantino, suggesting that the latter would never receive praise for his handling of the matter.

This sequence, widely shared on social media, has nonetheless fueled questions about possible political influence on decisions surrounding the competition. Gianni Infantino's silent presence alongside Donald Trump during this statement has also sparked numerous reactions.

On the pitch, Belgium gave the American team no chance, winning convincingly (4-1) and ending the United States' run in the tournament, at least in sporting terms, closing the Balogun chapter. But Donald Trump's comments are likely to prolong the debate surrounding this affair, which will remain one of the defining controversies of the 2026 World Cup.