Folarin Balogun apologizes after US exit, red‑card ban lifted following Trump‑FIFA intervention

U.S. striker Folarin Balogun received a straight red card in the round‑of‑32 match against Bosnia‑Herzegovina, which initially meant a suspension for the round‑of‑16. The ban was overturned after U.S. President Donald Trump personally called FIFA president Gianni Infantino, prompting FIFA to suspend the sanction and allow Balogun to start against Belgium. The United States lost 4‑1 and were eliminated.

Balogun posted an emotional apology on Instagram, saying, “My first World Cup… it hurts to wait four years… we let you down,” and expressed optimism that “soccer in America will only get bigger.” Belgian coach Rudi García met Balogun after the match, stating he was not to blame and praising the striker’s gesture. The episode sparked debate over FIFA’s disciplinary consistency and the influence of political figures on sport.

Balogun, born in Brooklyn and raised in London, chose to represent the United States over England or Nigeria in 2023. He entered the tournament as the U.S. team’s top scorer with three goals, including a brace against Paraguay in the group stage.