FIFA suspended two members of the United States men's national soccer team staff from attending the team’s round of 16 World Cup match against Belgium on Monday. Team manager Sam Zapatka and US Soccer Federation vice-president of security Frank Pannell were barred from the game, according to multiple reports on Tuesday. The international governing body issued the suspensions on the day of the match but did not provide a specific explanation for the disciplinary action.

The US Soccer Federation confirmed the staff members’ suspensions but declined to elaborate on the reasons. The federation noted that the suspensions were unrelated to its successful appeal to delay the enforcement of Folarin Balogun’s red-card suspension.

Media outlets cited sources suggesting that the sanctions stemmed from breaches of FIFA’s matchday protocols. These reportedly involved unauthorized individuals accessing restricted areas during the competition. No physical altercation or incident was reported in connection with the suspensions.

One report indicated the disciplinary measures might be linked to an incident on July 1, when Balogun, who had received a red card in the United States’ group-stage match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, reportedly reentered the field to celebrate the team’s 2-0 victory. As per FIFA’s regulations, players dismissed with a red card are prohibited from returning to the pitch during or after the match. Balogun’s infraction in the game involved a dangerous tackle in the second half.

Zapatka has been part of US Soccer since 2015 and has served as team manager since 2020. Pannell, before joining US Soccer, reportedly held positions with the U.S. Secret Service, the Central Intelligence Agency, and various roles in the private sector, according to a university publication.

The United States was defeated 4-1 by Belgium in the round of 16 match. The suspensions of Zapatka and Pannell were notable as the team prepared for a critical game at the tournament, highlighting FIFA’s strict enforcement of operational protocols during major international competitions.