The USA’s key player in the FIFA World Cup 2026, Folarin Balogun, will be eligible for selection in the Round of 16 match against Belgium after FIFA lifted his one-game ban. Balogun faced suspension due to a red card in the Round of 32 game against Bosnia-Herzegovina.
FIFA invoked article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code to suspend Balogun’s ban for a year, allowing him to play. The decision stipulates that if Balogun repeats a similar offense during the probationary period, the suspension will be enforced immediately.
The Royal Belgian Football Association expressed surprise at FIFA’s ruling and is exploring its options in response. The RBFA highlighted discrepancies between FIFA’s decision and the regulations governing the FIFA World Cup 2026, emphasizing the importance of fair play and the need to protect the rights of all teams.
