Belgium federation vows to pursue Balogun case after FIFA lifts suspension

FIFA’s Appeal Committee rejected the Belgian Football Association’s (RBFA) request to reinstate the red‑card suspension of US striker Folarin Balogun, labeling the appeal inadmissible because Belgium is not a party to the disciplinary procedure. The governing body then used Article 27 of its disciplinary code to suspend the one‑match ban, allowing Balogun to feature in the round‑of‑16 match against Belgium. The United States won the appeal after a reported phone call from former President Donald Trump to FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

Belgium defeated the United States 4‑1 in Seattle and the Belgian players said the ‘sense of injustice’ over the Balogun decision boosted their motivation. Midfielder Nicolas Raskin noted the extra drive, while captain Youri Tielemans confirmed the team felt a need to respond on the field. The RBFA said it will continue to monitor the case, stressing the need for legal certainty, transparency, equal treatment and fair play, and it has notified the US federation that it will contest Balogun’s eligibility should he be listed on the match sheet.

In addition to the appeal, FIFA imposed a $40,000 fine on Balogun for two disciplinary code breaches, with the US Soccer Federation held jointly liable. The controversy has drawn worldwide comment and may be taken to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.