World Cup 2026: FIFA’s reversal of US Belogun red card ban hard to justify, says analyst

FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the governing body’s disciplinary process on Monday (Jul 6) after US President Donald Trump hailed as “brilliant” its decision to suspend US striker Folarin Balogun’s World Cup red-card ban, fuelling accusations FIFA had bowed to political pressure before the reinstated forward failed to prevent a 4-1 defeat by Belgium. Analysts say FIFA's decision to lift Balogun's suspension is difficult to justify on sporting or disciplinary grounds, particularly given the lack of a formal appeal process. Calling the move a "diplomatic hijinks", University of Cincinnati's Professor David Niven tells CNA's Asia First this could potentially undermine FIFA's credibility.

Belgium eliminated US 4-1: https://cna.asia/3R3rlVv
For more on the red card ban: https://cna.asia/4f7tXtF

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