It has emerged who overturned the suspension of the United States striker

The United States were eliminated in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but before their exit they found themselves at the centre of a controversial incident after their striker, who was expected to serve a suspension, was ultimately cleared to play. It has now emerged who made that decision.

Details: According to Polymarket, FIFA's decision to overturn Folarin Balogun's automatic suspension was made by a single individual—Mohammed Al Kamali of the United Arab Emirates, the chairman of the committee. Furthermore, none of the other 17 committee members were consulted before the ruling was issued.

Reminder: The semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup are just around the corner, to be followed by the third-place play-off and the final. However, for many referees, the tournament has already come to an end.