The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) continues to demand answers from FIFA regarding the controversial suspension of Folarin Balogun during the 2026 World Cup. Two months after the events, the Belgian federation is maintaining pressure for clarity on a decision described as highly unorthodox.
The case concerns the straight red card received by American striker Folarin Balogun during the group stage. FIFA suspended his one-match ban for a year, allowing him to play against Belgium in the last-16. This decision was widely criticised and marks only the second time in World Cup history that a sent-off player did not serve an immediate suspension, after Brazil's Garrincha in 1962.
The RBFA, along with UEFA, immediately questioned the logic of this measure. No other suspensions were lifted throughout the entire 2026 tournament, making the Balogun case unique. FIFA never fully explained itself, merely citing article 27 of its disciplinary code. The Belgian federation now wants a clear justification and details on how such situations will be handled in the future. RBFA president Pascale van Damme stated: "Two months after the events, our questions remain unanswered."
This affair comes as Belgium enters a busy period. The national team, currently top of their qualifying group with 5 points from 1 win and 2 draws, will face Italy away on September 25th. They will have to manage without the sidelined Amadou Onana. Fans can follow the team's preparation on our squad page.
The RBFA has announced it will not support Gianni Infantino's bid for a further term as FIFA president in March. This stance is driven by two main reasons: the Balogun case and the abandoned "FIFA Forward Enterprise" plan to sell stakes in competitions to private investment firms. Infantino, president since 2016, is under pressure after details of this plan emerged.
The Belgian federation wants the issue discussed at the FIFA Council meeting on October 15th. Van Damme added: "Given the importance of transparency and clarity for all parties involved, we request the necessary explanations and, at the same time, wish to explore where improvements to the current processes are possible, so that similar cases can be handled in a clear, consistent and efficient manner in the future."
Despite the controversy, Belgium comfortably won that last-16 tie against the USA 4-1. Balogun, who had already scored three goals in the tournament, started the match. Belgium's journey ended in the quarter-finals, however, with a 2-1 loss to Spain on July 10th. That defeat is part of a recent inconsistent run of form, with three wins and two losses in their last five games. The full upcoming schedule is available in our fixtures.
With 6 goals scored and only 2 conceded in qualifying, Belgium's defence shows positive signs. But the team needs to find consistency after losing their last two matches. The next fixture against Italy on September 25th represents a significant test in the qualification race.
