Belgium has threatened to seek the expulsion of the United States from the World Cup following intervention by former U.S. President Donald Trump in a disciplinary matter involving striker Folarin Balogun. The incident centers on Balogun’s red card received during the round of 32 match against Bosnia, which under FIFA rules would have resulted in an automatic suspension for the United States’ round of 16 match against Belgium.

Balogun, 25, was initially sent off for a foul, but Trump confirmed that he contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of the decision. Following this intervention, FIFA overturned the red card and allowed Balogun to participate in the round of 16 contest. Trump characterized the original call as faulty, stating the incident involved two players colliding rather than a foul.

The Belgian Football Association (FA) reacted strongly to the reversal, describing it as a violation of FIFA regulations. The Belgian FA has formally appealed the decision and warned that, should the United States field Balogun and defeat Belgium, they are prepared to escalate the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne. The Belgian side has indicated it may push for the United States to be removed from the tournament altogether.

At present, FIFA has not issued a detailed explanation of the rationale behind overturning the red card. The situation remains tense as Belgium prepares to face the United States with the eligibility of a key player under dispute, raising questions about the consistency and impartiality of disciplinary enforcement at football’s premier international tournament.