FIFA's ultimatum pits Belgium's protest against Balogun's reprieve

FIFA has issued an ultimatum to the Belgian federation, demanding a response by 5 a.m. local time (14:00 Belgian time) on whether the Monaco striker Folarin Balogun can feature in the United States‑Belgium match, after the governing body lifted his suspension from the red‑card incident against Bosnia. The intense communication underscored the high stakes surrounding the striker’s eligibility for the upcoming friendly. Calls between the White House, FIFA officials and the Belgian delegation heated up overnight, with phones reportedly ‘on fire’ on American soil as both sides scrambled to protect their interests in the Balogun case. The intense communication underscored the high stakes surrounding the striker’s eligibility for the upcoming friendly. The United States were unable to appeal Balogun’s suspension, which stemmed from a straight‑red card he received in the match against Bosnia. FIFA, however, granted the Monaco forward a reprieve, effectively clearing him to play.

FIFA overturns Balogun ban, Belgian federation fumes

The Belgian federation responded with a formal communiqué denouncing what it called an inconsistency in the regulations. The statement questioned whether the federation truly possessed any authority to influence the decision. After several hours of silence, FIFA finally replied, acknowledging the Belgian reaction and the broader international outcry. Gianni Infantino also appointed a Qatari referee to review the disciplinary commission’s ruling, giving the federation a narrow window to present its arguments.

FIFA chief defends decision after Trump intervenes in Balogun red card row

To date, the Belgian federation has not received the official decision lifting Balogun’s suspension nor the rationale behind it. Moreover, the referee’s report from the United States‑Bosnia match, which led to Balogun’s dismissal, remains undisclosed despite repeated requests. The United States‑Belgium friendly will be streamed live on Walfoot.be from 02:00 on 7 July, while the Belgian federation prepares its final submission before the deadline. Fans are encouraged to sign up for the Walfoot newsletter to stay updated on the unfolding saga.