US President Donald Trump Praises FIFA President Gianni Infantino for Reversing Folarin Balogun's Red Card
Donald Trump praised FIFA's controversial decision to overturn USMNT star Folarin Balogun's red card. The remarks were made Friday, July 17, 2026, at Trump Tower, ahead of Sunday's FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, kicking off at 3:00 PM ET at the New York/New Jersey.
In a characteristically outspoken address at Trump Tower yesterday, former US President Donald Trump combined two of his enduring themes: asserting the 2020 presidential election was 'rigged' and claiming personal credit for major sporting events. Speaking at a reception held before a crucial FIFA Council meeting, Trump also lauded the decision to overturn USMNT striker Folarin Balogun’s red card, a move that sparked significant controversy earlier in the tournament. Donald Trump To Attend FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Between Argentina and Spain at MetLife Stadium.
Donald Trump Praises Gianni Infantino
President Trump said he was "forced to call Gianni [Infantino]" after U.S. Men's National Team star Folarin Balogun's red card in the World Cup. "I said, 'I'd like to wage a complaint.' I had no idea what was going to happen." pic.twitter.com/GoD3qRG5S4
— CBS News (@CBSNews) July 18, 2026
The Controversial Balogun Decision
Trump’s praise for the 'Balogun decision' refers to FIFA's controversial reversal of a red card issued to US Men's National Team striker Folarin Balogun, aged 24. Balogun, born in Brooklyn, New York, received the red card on July 1 during the USMNT's Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, FIFA's Disciplinary Committee suspended the one-match ban on July 5, allowing Balogun to play in the Round of 16 against Belgium on July 5. This decision drew widespread criticism, particularly from the Royal Belgian Football Association, who accused FIFA of not adhering to its own rules.
Reports indicate that FIFA held 'extraordinary talks with U.S. President Donald Trump and other government officials' before the decision was made. Trump had previously taken credit for the overturn, thanking FIFA on social media for 'doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice!'
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final: Spain vs Argentina
The 2026 FIFA World Cup culminates this Sunday, July 19, with a highly anticipated final between European champions Spain and defending world champions Argentina. FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule Today (July 19): Timings in IST, Venues, Groups.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Spain vs. Argentina |
| Competition | 2026 FIFA World Cup Final |
| Date | Sunday, July 19, 2026 |
| Kick-off Time | 3:00 PM ET (Eastern Time) |
| Venue | New York/New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium), East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA |
Trump’s latest remarks underscore a continued intertwining of sports, politics, and his personal narrative. As the world awaits the World Cup final, his comments ensure that the political dimension remains a talking point alongside the footballing spectacle.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 18, 2026 12:35 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
