- Fifa President Gianni Infantino clarified a conversation with Donald Trump after Folarin Balogun's red card suspension sparked rumours of political influence.
- Balogun, a key player for the World Cup 2026 co-hosts, had his straight red card from a match against Bosnia and Herzegovina suspended for a year by the independent Fifa Disciplinary Committee.
- The committee invoked Article 27 of the disciplinary code, allowing Balogun to play in the upcoming last-16 match against Belgium, a decision that surprised many.
- Infantino stated that while he regularly discusses World Cup matters with heads of state, he explained to Trump that Balogun's case was an ongoing legal process handled by independent judicial bodies.
- The decision has raised concerns among European nations, with the Belgian FA considering an appeal and UEFA questioning the integrity of the competition.
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