Glenn Micallef Says FIFA Got Balogun Call Wrong, Warns Against Political Interference

“Decisions on sporting rules and sporting matters belong to sporting bodies, not politicians,” he said, warning that political influence would undermine the autonomy of sport.

The controversy erupted after FIFA suspended Balogun’s automatic one-match ban following his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, making him available for the United States’ World Cup Round of 16 clash against Belgium.

The move came after reports that US President Donald Trump personally contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino to ask for the suspension to be reconsidered.

Belgium has described FIFA’s decision as “astonishing” and is exploring all possible legal avenues to challenge the ruling, arguing it contradicts FIFA’s own disciplinary regulations.

While Micallef made it clear he disagrees with the outcome, he said the focus should remain on protecting the independence of sport and addressing broader governance challenges, including the weaponisation of sport for political purposes.

What do you make of the issue?

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Gabriel Falzon

Gabriel Falzon is a social media executive at Lovin Malta, with a keen interest in digital media, local businesses, and the natural world. Outside of work, you’ll often find him baking up a storm, diving into video games, or exploring the endless corners of YouTube.