United States President Donald Trump has questioned the integrity of referee Raphael Claus following the controversial red card shown to American striker Folarin Balogun during the USA’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash against Bosnia.
Balogun was sent off by Claus during the encounter, resulting in an automatic one-match suspension. However, FIFA overturned the ban on Sunday after reviewing the incident, making the striker available for the United States’ Round of 16 fixture against Belgium.
Speaking at the White House, Trump confirmed that he requested FIFA to review the referee’s decision, insisting Balogun’s dismissal was unjustified.
“I saw the play, and I’m a person that loves sports… that wasn’t a foul,” Trump said.
“That wasn’t even an infraction. This referee, who is a little bit suspect if you check his past, made a call that nobody could believe.”
He added: “He’s our best player, or one of our best players. And he gave him a red card. I didn’t know what that meant. Yes, I asked for a review by FIFA.”
FIFA has not publicly disclosed the specific reasons behind its decision to rescind Balogun’s suspension. The reversal ensures the forward will be available for head coach Mauricio Pochettino as the United States prepares to face Belgium in the knockout stage.
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