Balogun Reinstated After FIFA Suspends World Cup Ban
PUBLISHED Jul 6, 2026, 2:28 PM ET
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NEW YORK — Folarin Balogun was reinstated to play for the United States in the World Cup round of 16 after FIFA suspended a ban stemming from a red card he received in the United States’ prior match against Bosnia and Herzegovina; the suspension was announced on Sunday ahead of Monday’s match versus Belgium. The suspension followed public attention including a request conveyed by President Donald Trump to FIFA President Gianni Infantino; Balogun, born in New York and raised in Britain, had switched to the US national programme in 2023, and FIFA’s decision restored his match eligibility and altered US squad selection for the immediate knockout fixture.
By Michael Grant | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Birth in New York; Balogun taken to Britain at about one month old.
- Balogun represents England at youth levels while developing his career.
- In 2023 Balogun commits to the United States national team programme.
- During the World Cup, Balogun received a red card in the match versus Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- FIFA announced suspension of Balogun’s ban on Sunday, enabling him for Monday’s round of 16 match against Belgium.
News Intelligence
- Balogun's reinstatement is a win for the US team. It shows the power of public attention and high-level intervention. If you're a soccer fan, this could boost the US's chances in the World Cup.
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Folarin Balogun and the United States men’s national team benefited from FIFA's suspension of his ban, allowing his inclusion in the round of 16 and preserving the team’s planned attacking options for the match against Belgium.
Belgium and its coaching staff faced an altered opponent selection and tactical preparation when Balogun’s reinstatement changed the United States’ available personnel ahead of the round of 16 game.
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