Seattle fans unite over Balogun red‑card dispute ahead of World Cup clash

Seattle, a city that typically leans Democratic, filled its streets with red, white and blue as U.S. supporters gathered for the World Cup round‑of‑16 match against Belgium. Former President Donald Trump publicly urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to overturn the red‑card suspension of U.S. forward Folarin Balogun, but local fans said politics should not dictate the decision. Interviewees such as Brad Lawliss (57, Portland) and Michael Scott (54) described the atmosphere as patriotic and supportive of Balogun’s reinstatement, noting that “soccer is a national sport” and that the political twist was unnecessary. Belgian supporters also marched to the stadium, some holding signs referencing the controversy. The incident highlights how a high‑profile sporting decision intersected briefly with U.S. political commentary during a major international tournament.