The Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) has stated it will not support Gianni Infantino's bid for another term as FIFA president without clear explanations regarding the Folarin Balogun red-card case. This decision follows FIFA's suspension of the automatic ban for the US striker, which allowed him to face Belgium in their World Cup last-16 clash. The RBFA has requested the case be placed on the agenda for the next FIFA Council meeting on October 15.
Belgium, currently top of their World Cup group with five points from three games, has scored six goals and conceded two.
Why Belgium is challenging FIFA's decision
The controversy stems from the latter stages of the 2026 World Cup. US striker Folarin Balogun received a red card that typically triggers an automatic suspension for the following match. However, FIFA suspended that ban, enabling Balogun to play against Belgium in the round of 16. The RBFA immediately sought clarity on this disciplinary process, which it viewed as opaque. RBFA President Pascale Van Damme said, "My team at the RBFA communicated with FIFA in a composed and constructive manner, both during and after the World Cup, to obtain clarity in the Balogun case." Two months after the events, the federation notes its questions remain unanswered.
What are the RBFA's other concerns
The Balogun case is not the only point of contention. The Belgian federation also opposes a FIFA proposal to sell a stake in World Cup commercial rights. The RBFA says it remains committed to a strong, independent and sustainable model for international football. It stated, "It is essential that such cases are handled in a transparent and rigorous manner, in the interests of FIFA, the good governance and the credibility of international football, with clear safeguards for the future." Belgium remains in close contact with UEFA on both issues and continues to push for greater transparency in FIFA's decision-making.
What is the current sporting context for the national team
While this administrative battle unfolds, the Belgium squad must focus on its ongoing World Cup campaign. With a recent form of three wins and two losses from its last five matches, the manager must cope without the currently sidelined Amadou Onana. The last outing was a 2-1 defeat to Spain on July 10. The team's journey and statistics can be followed on our standings page. Squad management, especially with key players absent, is central to preparing for the clash with Italy.
What is the next step in this dispute
Pressure is mounting ahead of the FIFA Council meeting on October 15. The RBFA has formally asked for the Balogun case to be discussed there. This move comes amid reports that US President Donald Trump personally urged Gianni Infantino to review the case. Belgium's support for Infantino's re-election is now conditional on satisfactory answers about the handling of this incident and future safeguards. The Belgian federation, which also monitors the injuries list, intends to use its influence to defend its governance principles. The next major sporting fixture for the Red Devils is an away match against Italy on September 25, 2026.
