FIFA President Gianni Infantino characterized a phone call from President Trump as routine after the United States triumphed over Bosnia, securing a spot in the quarterfinals. Infantino stated that he frequently discusses the World Cup with Trump. However, this particular call precipitated a notable crisis in the event’s 96-year history, casting doubt on FIFA’s claims of impartiality.
Trump, who watched the match on television, objected to the suspension of the team’s star striker, Folarin Balogun. Balogun received a red card following an on-field review by the Brazilian referee. Trump viewed the decision as incorrect and sought to address it directly. He stated, ‘All I did was ask for a review because I didn’t think it was a foul,’ making the call seem ordinary despite escalating suspicions around FIFA’s neutrality.
Typically, the rules surrounding red cards are straightforward. A player must sit out at least one subsequent game. When FIFA announced a reprieve for Balogun, many speculated it resembled a presidential pardon.
FIFA, often embroiled in controversy, defended its decision through legal terminology concerning procedures and committees. The organization claimed that Trump and Infantino were merely interested parties, with the decision ultimately resting with an independent committee beyond even FIFA’s leadership.
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