Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter has questioned the decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s one-match ban, warning that football must remain independent of political influence.

The controversy follows FIFA’s decision to allow the United States striker to feature in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium after his automatic suspension was unexpectedly lifted.

Reports suggested the decision came after a phone conversation between United States President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino, although FIFA has not publicly explained the reasons behind the ruling.

Reacting to the development, Blatter argued that disciplinary decisions should be based solely on football regulations and evidence rather than outside influence.

He insisted that red card suspensions should only be reviewed through established legal and sporting procedures.

The former FIFA chief said the incident raises serious concerns about the independence of football’s governing body, stressing that the sport should never become a platform for political intervention.

Blatter, who led FIFA before resigning in 2015 amid a corruption scandal, has frequently criticised Infantino’s leadership. His latest comments add to growing criticism from across the football community.

UEFA, Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia and former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp have also voiced concerns over the decision to overturn Balogun’s suspension, arguing that it undermines the integrity of the competition.

The incident has become one of the biggest talking points of the 2026 World Cup, with many calling for FIFA to provide a full explanation of the process that led to Balogun being cleared to return in time for the knockout fixture.