06.07.2026 00:30
The Belgian Football Federation has expressed its surprise over the decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's red card penalty. The federation argued that FIFA's decision contradicts disciplinary regulations and World Cup Tournament Rules. Belgian head coach Rudi Garcia also spoke on the matter, saying, 'I thought our match against the USA was on July 6, but apparently it was on April 1. As a joke, a player with a red card suspension will play.'
The Belgian Football Federation has expressed "astonishment" at the decision to postpone the suspension of American player Folarin Balogun, who received a red card in the match against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
BELGIUM REACTS TO THE POSTPONEMENT OF THE PENALTY
In a statement from the federation, it was noted that FIFA's postponement decision was based on Article 27 of the disciplinary regulations, adding, "However, Article 66.4 of the same regulations clearly stipulates that a red card will automatically result in a suspension for the team's next match, as with all previous red cards shown during the World Cup."
The statement indicated that this decision directly contradicts Article 2026 of the FIFA World Cup Tournament Regulations, which states, "If a player or team official is sent off as a direct or indirect result of a red card, they will be automatically suspended from the team's next match. In addition, further sanctions may be applied."
The federation stated that it is exploring all options to protect the legitimate rights of all participating teams in current and future tournaments and to uphold the fundamental principles of fair play.
RUDI GARCIA'S STRONG STATEMENT
Belgium's head coach, Rudi Garcia, also spoke about the issue at a press conference before the match against the USA, saying, "I thought our match against the USA was on July 6, but it turns out it's on April 1. As a joke, a player with a red card suspension will play."
WHAT HAPPENED?
American forward Folarin Balogun received a direct red card for a foul on Tarik Muharemovic during the Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday, July 1. FIFA's Disciplinary Board postponed the 25-year-old player's suspension for a period of one year.
WHEN IS THE MATCH?
The USA, which defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0, will face Belgium in the Round of 16 on Tuesday, July 7, at 03:00 Turkish time.