Belgium’s soccer federation has reportedly been allowed to appeal FIFA’s decision to lift a red card suspension against USA World Cup player Folarin Balogun. According to The Athletic, the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) requested a detailed explanation from FIFA regarding its decision on Balogun. The RBFA is also seeking a report from FIFA’s officiating body.

Folarin Balogun, a U.S. player, celebrated scoring the first goal in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The game was held in Santa Clara, California. The U.S. team is set to play Belgium in their Round of 16 match in Seattle at 8 p.m. ET.

FIFA lifted Balogun’s suspension on Sunday. This decision marked the first instance since 1962 when a World Cup red card did not lead to a suspension. Balogun initially received the red card after stepping on the ankle of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s player Tarik Muharemovic following a VAR review.

The RBFA expressed astonishment at FIFA’s decision. Belgium coach Rudi Garcia criticized the ruling. Through a translator, Garcia commented, “I didn’t know that in FIFA offices the fifth of July was considered April Fools’ Day in Europe.” He emphasized that the Belgian federation defends the integrity and ethics of football.

“It’s the first time in World Cup history that such a decision has been made,” Garcia remarked.

Folarin Balogun was consoled by his teammates Giovanni Reyna and Timothy Weah after receiving the red card during the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina at the World Cup 2026.

The RBFA stated, “In order to safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and protect fair play, both in this World Cup and future tournaments, we are exploring all potential courses of action.” According to a source, former U.S. President Donald Trump contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of the red card.

FIFA announced, “The implementation of the match suspension is suspended for a probationary period of one year. If Folarin Balogun commits another similar infringement during the probationary period, the suspension will be enacted along with any new sanctions.”

U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino praised FIFA’s decision. He noted, “We were punished enough against Bosnia and Herzegovina, playing with 10 men for 30 minutes due to a completely unfair decision.”

Folarin Balogun addressed the media before training in Seattle, Washington, anticipating the upcoming matches. The Associated Press contributed to this report.