FIFA's Disciplinary Committee has defended its decision to postpone the one-match suspension of United States striker Folarin Balogun while fining him $40,000 after his red card in the World Cup Round of 32 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. The ruling, announced hours before the U.S. faced Belgium in the Round of 16, confirmed Balogun was guilty of two breaches: receiving a red card and re-entering the field to celebrate with teammates after dismissal.
Deferred Suspension Under Article 27
The committee deferred the suspension for one year under Article 27 of FIFA's disciplinary regulations, placing Balogun on probation and allowing him to play against Belgium. FIFA emphasized the referee's red-card decision was unchanged and that the postponement followed existing rules, citing similar measures in past international competitions as a balanced application of regulations.
Belgium's Appeal Rejected
Belgium unsuccessfully appealed, arguing Balogun should have served the suspension immediately. FIFA dismissed the objections, stating the committee acted independently and within its legal authority. Despite Balogun's availability, the U.S. lost 4-1 to Belgium, ending their World Cup campaign, with the controversy becoming a major off-field story.
