According to Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, a call from President Trump following the United States’ victory over Bosnia in the World Cup seemed typical. However, this conversation sparked a significant controversy. Trump was upset about the suspension of Folarin Balogun, the team’s leading striker, for the upcoming match against Belgium. The suspension resulted from a red card issued by a Brazilian referee during an on-field review.

Trump described his call as a simple request for a review. He disagreed with the foul call and believed it should be reconsidered. This action, perceived by many as presidential interference, raised questions about FIFA’s neutral stance in soccer.

Typically, red card rules are straightforward. A suspended player must miss at least the next game. Despite this, FIFA announced that Balogun received a reprieve. Observers likened the decision to a presidential pardon.

The event exacerbated suspicions about FIFA’s impartiality. The organization often relies on legal processes to justify decisions, claiming that Trump’s and Infantino’s involvement was limited to being interested parties. FIFA maintains that an independent committee, over which even Infantino has no influence, made the decision.