Belgium expresses ‘astonishment’ after American striker Balogun has his red card suspension revoked

The Belgian Football Association expressed its surprise at FIFA’s decision to revoke the one-match suspension imposed on American forward Folarin Balogun following his red card in the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The Monaco forward was given his marching orders to leave a mark on an opponent in the co-hosts’ 3-0 win in the round of 32. The red card automatically leads to a one-match suspension and there is no appeal for the team.

But FIFA based its decision on Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which states that the committee may decide to suspend the implementation of a previously imposed disciplinary sanction.

The FA statement questioned why Article 66.3 of the code, which clearly states that the player shown a red card will receive an automatic suspension, was being circumvented.

It also states that the decision is in direct contradiction to Article 10.5, which states: «If a player or team official is sent off as a result of a direct or indirect red card (second warning), he or she will be automatically suspended from his team’s next match. In addition, further sanctions may be imposed.»

“To safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and protect the fundamental principles of fair play in our sport, both at this FIFA World Cup and at future editions of the tournament, the RBFA is exploring all possible options,” the FA statement said.

Published on July 6, 2026