Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has strongly criticised FIFA’s decision to postpone the suspension of American player Fulani Balogun for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calling it damaging to the principles of the game and lacking transparency.
According to details, European football’s governing body reacted sharply to FIFA’s ruling, describing it as damaging to the principles of the game and lacking transparency.
In its statement, UEFA said the decision was “extraordinary, incomprehensible, and in no way justifiable.” The organisation further stated that when consistency and trust in the application of rules are not maintained, both the reputation of the competition and the integrity of the game are affected.
Balogun was shown a red card for a dangerous foul after a VAR review during the match against Bosnia, which would normally have resulted in his suspension from the pre-quarterfinal against Belgium.
However, following a request from U.S. President Donald Trump to FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the decision, FIFA postponed the enforcement of the suspension for a one-year trial period, although the red card itself was upheld.
The Belgian Football Association also expressed great surprise over the decision and has reportedly approached FIFA to file a formal appeal. FIFA has not yet issued any further statement regarding the dispute.
It is worth mentioning here that FIFA has reversed its decision to immediately suspend American player Fulani Balogun for one match following his red card, after intervention from the President of the United States.
The decision clears Balogun to play in the World Cup pre-quarterfinal against Belgium, sparking widespread debate in world football.
Balogun was shown a red card after a VAR review during the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina for a dangerous tackle on the ankle of opponent Tarik Muharrovic.
Although U.S. head coach Mauricio Pochettino described the decision as harsh, he stated that it was not worthy of a red card.
According to reports, U.S. President Donald Trump contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino and requested a review of the decision. Following this, FIFA postponed Balogun’s suspension for a one-year probationary period under Article 27 of the Code of Conduct, while the red card itself remains in effect.
Read more: FIFA decision sparks controversy after Trump’s intervention
