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Balogun fined $40,000 despite red card overturned

FIFA's Disciplinary Commission fined Folarin Balogun $40,000, the American striker for AS Monaco whose suspension was lifted following Donald Trump's intervention during the 2026 World Cup.

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Balogun fined $40,000 despite red card overturned
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FIFA condemned Folarin Balogun to a fine of $40,000 (approximately €35,000) for his gesture during the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup between the United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina, despite the prior overturning of his red card by the international body.

Sent off after an unintentional but dangerous challenge on the heel of Tarik Muharemovic, the AS Monaco striker had his one-match suspension lifted following an intervention by Donald Trump. FIFA had invoked Article 27 of its Disciplinary Code, which allows for the total or partial suspension of a sanction, imposing the penalty with a one-year suspended sentence.

The Disciplinary Commission nevertheless maintained a financial sanction, split between two violations of Articles 14 and 66 of the Disciplinary Code. The United States Football Federation was also declared jointly liable for payment of the fine.

Balogun ultimately played in the round of 16 against Belgium, which the United States lost 4-1. After the match, Belgian coach Rudi Garcia defended the player, believing the striker was not responsible for the scandal caused by the overturning of his suspension.

The affair continues to place FIFA under pressure, with political interference in a disciplinary decision having provoked strong reactions within the football world.

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