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2026-10-15 19:57 UTC → 2026-10-17 17:31 UTC ·
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FIFA to amend disciplinary controversy involving Folarin rules after Balogun controversy
During Following the controversy involving US striker Folarin Balogun during the World Cup, Brazilian referee Raphael Claus issued FIFA has announced it will amend Article 27 of its Disciplinary Code. The incident occurred when a red card issued to US striker Folarin Balogun during a match against Bosnia. Although the FIFA Disciplinary Committee later suspended the punishment, Bosnia-Herzegovina was controversially overturned, allowing Balogun him to participate in the next round, the round of 16 against Belgium. The decision sparked drew intense scrutiny and allegations of political tension. interference, specifically regarding reports that US President Donald Trump criticized the referee as ‘suspicious’ and sought information regarding Claus’s past involvement in contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a Brazilian investigation into match manipulation, though no evidence of wrongdoing review. While Infantino has denied personal involvement and maintained the decision was found. Following independent, the controversy, FIFA announced plans to amend its disciplinary code to prevent similar incidents. The proposed changes, which are to be presented to event has sparked widespread criticism concerning the integrity and transparency of FIFA’s processes. During a FIFA Council in Zurich, aim to ensure that automatic one-match suspensions resulting from red cards cannot be overturned or suspended. This move follows reports suggesting meeting, Belgian Football Association president Pascale Van Damme raised concerns regarding the suspension was lifted after communication between President Trump lack of transparency and FIFA the role played by President Gianni Infantino, an allegation Trump. Although Infantino denied by stating offered apologies for how the decision matter was made independently. In a recent development, FIFA confirmed it is moving handled, he did not provide full answers to amend Article 27 of its Disciplinary Code. all questions regarding the exceptional procedure used to suspend the disciplinary measure ‘integrally or partially’. The proposed amendment aims to ensure stability and predictability by making automatic one-match suspensions mandatory. mandatory for red cards, thereby removing ambiguity. The Belgian Football Association has actively pushed formal submission for approval of these regulatory changes to prevent future exceptions. The proposal is expected scheduled to be formally submitted for approval take place in Doha on December 16, 2026. The incident has drawn sharp criticism from UEFA and other footballing bodies. Alongside the regulatory amendments, Infantino is expected to propose doubling the financial support provided to national associations during the upcoming Council meeting, amid ongoing scrutiny regarding FIFA leadership and governance.