Political pressure on sport? White House demanded review of red card for US leader
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
A major scandal is erupting over the sending off of American striker Folarin Balogun.
Details: According to Ben Jacobs, White House representatives directly contacted FIFA, demanding a review of the decision to issue a red card to the player.
The international federation itself refused to comment on the call, redirecting all questions to the conclusions of its independent disciplinary committee. FIFA insists that the verdict was handed down solely based on Article 27 of the regulations, and that the disciplinary commission made its decision independently, without any outside influence.
Nevertheless, the situation has taken on political overtones. Donald Trump publicly reacted to the outcome:
"Thank you to FIFA for doing the right thing and correcting this great injustice," declared the US President, hinting that the red card had been overturned.
Reminder: The US national team leader will play against Belgium despite the red card.
