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USA could face disqualification from World Cup after Donald Trump's admission due to FIFA rule
Yahoo Sports • • general
Key Points:
- The US Men's National Team (USMNT) risks disqualification from the 2026 World Cup due to potential government interference after former President Donald Trump claimed responsibility for FIFA's decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's red card ban.
- FIFA decided not to suspend Balogun for the round of 16 match against Belgium, a decision that angered the Belgian Football Association following Balogun's straight red card against Bosnia & Herzegovina.
- Trump stated he personally urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the ban, asserting that this intervention influenced the decision, which raises concerns about violations of FIFA's rules on fairness and integrity.
- FIFA's regulations emphasize respect for the Laws of the Game and ethical conduct, and Trump's admission of involvement may conflict with these principles, potentially putting the USMNT in jeopardy despite the low likelihood of disqualification.
- The USMNT is preparing to face Belgium in Seattle for a spot in the World Cup quarter-finals amid ongoing controversy surrounding the Balogun suspension.
