FIFA has stood by one of its top referees following criticism from US President Donald Trump.
Brazilian referee Raphael Claus has been under intense scrutiny after he sent off Folarin Balogun in the USA’s match against Bosnia Herzegovina.
During the World Cup Round of 32 game, Claus issued a direct red card to USMNT striker Folarin Balogun for a serious foul play incident.
While contesting a high ball, Balogun lost his balance and unintentionally landed his studs on defender Tarik Muharemovic’s ankle/Achilles.
President Donald Trump disclosed that he contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino to express his dissatisfaction with the decision.
In a talk with reporters, Trump stated, “He [Balogun] didn’t do anything wrong and he’s our best player, or one of our best players… and [the referee] gave him a red card. It’s very unfair, you can’t do that.”
He further clarified, “All I did was ask for a review,” and “I didn’t say that you have to do this.”
On Sunday, FIFA’s disciplinary body declared it would apply article 27 of the FIFA disciplinary code, meaning Balogun’s red card would be suspended, and he would only face a one-game ban if a similar offense occurred within the next year.
Belgium’s FA expressed they were ‘astonished’ and would be ‘exploring all potential options’ in response.
Trump was vocal about his opinion of the referee as well.
He referred to Raphael Claus as “a little bit suspect if you check his past,” though he did not provide additional details.
Claus is regarded as one of Brazil’s top referees, frequently selected for the country’s most significant matches, including the final of the 2024 Copa America.
FIFA promptly defended Claus by releasing a statement.
The organization stated: “FIFA recognises Raphael Claus as one of the world’s leading professional referees and a valued member of Team One, FIFA’s elite group of referees, at the FIFA World Cup.
“Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.”
FIFA referee chief Pierluigi Collina reaffirmed this by saying: “Raphael Claus is refereeing at his second FIFA World Cup, having been with us in Qatar in 2022.
“He is an experienced and highly respected referee, and we maintain full confidence in him as a trusted match official.”
Despite the controversy surrounding the game, the USA ultimately lost to Belgium 4-1. During the match, Belgian players were seen imitating Donald Trump’s famous dance moves after Romelu Lukaku netted the fourth goal.