World Cup 2026: Donald Trump thanks FIFA after Folarin Balogun cleared to face Belgium

United States President Donald Trump has publicly thanked FIFA after the governing body confirmed that Folarin Balogun will be available for the United States’ World Cup knockout match against Belgium despite receiving a red card earlier in the tournament.

FIFA announced that although Balogun’s red card will remain on his disciplinary record, it will not carry a suspension during the current World Cup. The decision means the striker is eligible for selection for the United States’ next match.

The announcement prompted an immediate response from Trump, who welcomed FIFA’s ruling in a post on his social media platform.

“Thank you to Fifa for doing what was right and reversing a great injustice”, Donald J. Trump has posted.

FIFA confirms Balogun remains eligible

The governing body issued a statement confirming the disciplinary outcome regarding Balogun.

While the striker’s red card has not been overturned, FIFA clarified that the punishment attached to it will not be enforced during the ongoing World Cup.

As a result, Balogun will be available for the United States when they face Belgium in the knockout stage.

The decision removes uncertainty surrounding the striker’s availability and allows the American coaching staff to include him in their plans for the upcoming fixture.

Trump welcomes FIFA’s decision

Following FIFA’s announcement, President Trump expressed his approval of the outcome.

His response focused on the governing body’s decision to allow Balogun to play despite the red card remaining part of his disciplinary record.

Trump wrote:

“Thank you to Fifa for doing what was right and reversing a great injustice”.

The statement quickly drew attention as reactions continued following FIFA’s confirmation.

Balogun available for Belgium clash

The ruling means the United States will have Balogun available for one of their most important matches of the tournament.

Although the red card still stands officially, the absence of a suspension allows him to feature against Belgium.

FIFA’s clarification settles the issue before the knockout fixture, ensuring there is no uncertainty regarding the striker’s eligibility.

The decision also concludes speculation over whether the United States would be without one of its attacking options for the match.

With FIFA’s position now confirmed, attention turns to the round-of-16 encounter, where Balogun will be eligible for selection as the United States seeks to continue its World Cup campaign.