President Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to discuss the suspension of U.S. striker Folarin Balogun before the governing body reversed its decision, a U.S. official told Axios. The conversation occurred as the U.S. men's national team prepared for the World Cup knockout stage. The official said Trump sought to understand the rationale behind the red card and subsequent one-game ban.
Direct presidential intervention in a FIFA disciplinary matter is highly unusual. The involvement highlights how closely the administration is following the tournament and raises questions about potential political influence on international sports governance. The reversal allows Balogun to play in the knockout stage.
The U.S. government provided additional evidence that was used in the appeal process, which the official described as run by an independent board. The official added that ultimately the correct outcome was achieved. Trump later thanked FIFA on Truth Social for doing what was right, calling the decision a reversal of a great injustice.
The New York Times first reported news of Trump's intervention. The episode underscores the intersection of sports and geopolitics, with a sitting president directly engaging a global sports body over a competitive ruling. Critics may view this as an overreach, while supporters see it as effective advocacy.
The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the specifics of the call. Balogun was unavailable for media availability at the team's training facility.