Belgium's football federation has strongly criticized FIFA's decision to suspend the one-match ban imposed on United States striker Folarin Balogun, expressing its "deep astonishment" just ahead of the two nations' Round of 16 clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Balogun was shown a straight red card during the United States' victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina after a heavy challenge on defender Tarik Muharemović, a dismissal that would normally result in an automatic suspension for the following match.

Belgium: The Rules Are Clear

FIFA later announced that the suspension would be placed on probation for one year under Article 27 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, making Balogun eligible to face Belgium while keeping the ban in force should he commit a similar offense during the probationary period.

However, the Royal Belgian Football Association argued that the decision contradicts Article 66.4 of FIFA's Disciplinary Code, which clearly states that a straight red card automatically carries a suspension for the team's next match.

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The federation also cited Article 10.5 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup regulations and FIFA Circular No. 16, saying both explicitly reaffirm the automatic nature of the suspension for players sent off during the tournament.

Belgium added that it is now examining all available legal options to protect the rights of participating teams and uphold the principles of fairness and sporting integrity.

The latest development comes only hours after U.S. President Donald Trump publicly thanked FIFA for the decision, adding another layer to one of the World Cup's biggest controversies. The ruling continues to fuel debate over whether FIFA correctly applied its disciplinary regulations or created a precedent that could have implications for future tournaments.