Balogun Decision Sparks New Controversy around Infantino
Sport
FIFA's decision to suspend the ban imposed on United States forward Folarin Balogun has triggered a sharp reaction in the European Parliament. A group of lawmakers has called for an investigation into FIFA President Gianni Infantino and urged European football associations to demand accountability from the organization's senior leadership.
The initiative was backed by 72 Members of the European Parliament from six political groups. In a letter sent to 27 national football associations across Europe, MEP Barry Andrews described the mid-tournament change to red-card suspension rules as “a disgrace and a distortion of the law.” He also accused FIFA of yielding to demands from US President Donald Trump's administration.
Balogun was sent off in the round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. After his suspension was put on hold, the forward was allowed to play against Belgium in the round of 16. Belgium appealed the decision, but FIFA's disciplinary committee rejected the challenge.
Belgium won the match 4–1, but the Balogun ruling has continued to raise questions over the transparency of FIFA's disciplinary policy.
Balogun was sent off in the round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. After his suspension was put on hold, the forward was allowed to play against Belgium in the round of 16. Belgium appealed the decision, but FIFA's disciplinary committee rejected the challenge.
Belgium won the match 4–1, but the Balogun ruling has continued to raise questions over the transparency of FIFA's disciplinary policy.
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