FIFA’s controversial decision to overrule Folarin Balogun’s red card has not gone down well with Sepp Blatter.
On Sunday, it was announced that the United States striker, Balogun, would now be eligible to face Belgium on Monday.
The decision to rescind his red card shown in the last round against Bosnia and Herzegovina has sparked fury across the world of soccer.
It was made clear coming into this summer’s World Cup that it would not be possible to appeal red cards shown during games in the tournament.
President Donald Trump has thanked FIFA for rescinding Balogun’s red card, which has left a sour taste for many in the game.
The decision has caused such a stir that even controversial former President of FIFA, Sepp Blatter, has shared his thoughts.
What Sepp Blatter said about FIFA’s decision to overturn Folarin Balogun’s red card
Balogun has been in fine form at the World Cup having three goals in three games for Mauricio Pochettino’s side.
This decision will have now changed Belgium’s plans, as they spent days thinking they would be facing a USMNT side without their star striker.
Taking to social media platform X, Blatter shared his frustrations over FIFA’s decision.
“Red cards are not overturned by political phone calls. They are overturned by rules, evidence and independent bodies. If a U.S. President intervenes with the FIFA President – and a player is suddenly cleared before a World Cup knockout match – the question is unavoidable: Quo vadis, FIFA?” he said.
“Football must never become a playground for political power.”
The irony is that many will feel the decision to overturn Balogun’s suspension is correct, but it is the manner in which it was done that is controversial.
It has been suggested that Trump led the appeal for FIFA to review Balogun’s red card, which naturally stirred the pot.
Balogun will now be ready to go in Seattle on Monday against Belguim.
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