US President Donald Trump said he asked FIFA to review the red card given to a United States player during the FIFA World Cup, but denied telling the organisation what decision to make.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said he believed the tackle did not deserve a red card. He said he only requested a review of the incident and did not try to pressure FIFA. After the suspension was overturned, Trump thanked FIFA and said it had corrected an unfair decision.
The player was sent off during the United States’ 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32 for a serious challenge. Under FIFA rules, a red card normally results in an automatic one-match suspension.
However, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee decided to suspend the ban under a rule in its disciplinary code. This allowed the player to take part in the Round of 16 match against Belgium.
The decision has caused debate in the football world. Belgium’s football federation said it was surprised by the ruling and argued that FIFA should apply the same rules to every team. The case has also raised questions about FIFA’s disciplinary process and whether high-profile figures should be involved in decisions during major international tournaments.
