World Cup 2026: FIFA Made Big Mistake Over Balogun’s Red Card Suspension — Solbakken

Norway head coach Stale Solbakken has criticised FIFA’s decision to suspend the one match ban imposed on United States striker Folarin Balogun, describing the move as a major mistake that could undermine the integrity of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Balogun was shown a straight red card during the United States’ 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina after a challenge on defender Tarik Muharemovic. The dismissal automatically attracted a one match suspension, which would have ruled him out of his side’s Round of 16 clash against Belgium.

However, FIFA announced on Sunday that the suspension would not take immediate effect. Instead, it placed the sanction on probation for one year, making Balogun available for selection against Belgium.

The decision has generated widespread debate, with Solbakken becoming one of the latest high profile figures to question the governing body’s action.

Speaking on the development, the Norwegian coach argued that FIFA’s intervention had set a dangerous precedent.

“It is a big mistake by FIFA. It is not a great conclusion. He got a red card and the VAR concluded that it was a red card. That means you are suspended for one game,” Solbakken said.

He warned that the decision could cast doubt over future results, particularly if the United States progress further in the competition.

“I think what is really bad about that situation is, if the USA beat Belgium, they will always have that extra thing about it.

“The Belgians will be furious. What about the next red card? What happens there? Will some committee take it away? It’s a bad, bad, bad, bad decision that will hurt the World Cup and the United States,” he added.

The reversal is considered highly unusual and is reportedly the first time since 1962 that FIFA has allowed a player to feature in a match despite being due to serve a suspension following a red card.

Balogun is now expected to lead the United States attack when they face Belgium as both teams battle for a place in the quarter finals.