FIFA has reversed the automatic one-match suspension of United States striker Folarin Balogun, clearing him to play in Monday's FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle — a decision that has drawn fury from the Belgian football federation and raised questions about political interference in the sport.
Multiple reports say US President Donald Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday and asked him to review the red card, which Balogun received in the group-stage match against Bosnia.
Belgium says the reversal contradicts FIFA's own disciplinary code.
From Washington, Allister Dsouza reports.
IN: “Many concerned how...”
OUT: “...really be fair?”
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Reporter Allister Dsouza in Washington says the close ties between the US president and the FIFA president are now facing even greater scrutiny.
IN: “Norway's federation has...”
OUT: “...time to Chelsea.”
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