FIFA Explains Folarin Balogun Disciplinary Decision

FIFA has released a statement explaining why Folarin Balogun will be available to play for the United States despite receiving a red card during the World Cup match against Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 1.

Balogun was sent off in the 64th minute for serious foul play after a VAR review and later returned to the field to celebrate with his teammates after the final whistle. FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings and found the striker guilty of both offenses.

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee issued a one-match suspension and a $40,000 fine, but suspended the match ban for a one-year probation period under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. This means Balogun will not miss the United States’ Round of 16 match against Belgium, unless he commits a similar offense within the next year.

FIFA also clarified that the referee’s red card was not overturned. Instead, the committee exercised its authority to suspend the implementation of the automatic one-match ban, calling the decision consistent with FIFA regulations and similar disciplinary cases in the past.

The $40,000 fine remains in effect, with the U.S. Soccer Federation sharing responsibility for the payment.