The German Football Association (DFB) has issued an official statement condemning FIFA’s controversial decision to lift the suspension of USMNT striker Folarin Balogun, clearing him to play in the 2026 World Cup round-of-16 clash against Belgium.
Balogun was set to miss the knockout match after receiving a red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, FIFA decided to suspend the ban, citing Article 37—the same provision applied months ago to allow Cristiano Ronaldo to play in the World Cup despite facing a three-match suspension.
Following the decision, multiple reports emerged claiming that US President Donald Trump personally called FIFA President Gianni Infantino, urging him to overturn the striker’s ban. The Swiss official’s compliance has sparked global outrage and placed the tournament’s integrity under intense scrutiny.
“FIFA’s Credibility is at Stake”
Germany is the latest major footballing nation to intervene in the escalating crisis. DFB President Bernd Neuendorf demanded an urgent explanation from Infantino, stating, “FIFA’s credibility is now at stake.”
The official German statement read:
“FIFA must respond swiftly to reports indicating that the decision to suspend the red card received by American player Folarin Balogun was preceded by a phone call between US President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.”
So far, FIFA has declined to comment on the political interference allegations, with officials merely pointing to the legal basis of the decision. Meanwhile, Belgium is preparing an official complaint against Balogun’s eligibility, backed by widespread support from the global football community, including UEFA.
