For Belgium's Beltway fans, a rout was the best revenge
Politics — 2026-07-10 15:41:00 — www.politico.com
President Donald Trump claimed full credit after FIFA lifted the suspension of American striker Folarin Balogun ahead of the United States’ Round of 16 World Cup match against Belgium, a move that sparked controversy both on and off the field.
## Trump Takes Credit Amid FIFA Controversy
As reported, the White House lobbied hard for Balogun’s eligibility, and Trump was quick to assert that the reversal was due to his administration’s efforts. This claim drew immediate backlash from Belgian sports authorities and fans, who argued that FIFA’s decision was politically motivated and suggested the organization had bowed to Trump’s influence.
## Belgian Response and Fallout
The Royal Belgian Football Association formally challenged FIFA’s reversal, and many Belgian fans criticized the move as unfair. Despite the controversy, Belgium dominated the match, never trailing the U.S., leading some to downplay the impact of Balogun’s participation.
## Ongoing Scrutiny
While some fans have moved on, the issue remains contentious in Brussels. Seventy-two members of the European Parliament have called for an investigation into FIFA President Gianni Infantino, specifically probing whether his relationship with Trump influenced the decision to overturn Balogun’s suspension.
## Conclusion
Trump’s decision to take credit for FIFA’s controversial ruling has fueled accusations of political interference in international sports. The ongoing investigation in Europe underscores the broader implications of such claims and the persistent scrutiny surrounding Trump’s role in the episode. The episode highlights the intersection of politics and sports, and the lasting impact of presidential involvement in high-profile international events.