Belgium withholds support for Infantino over Balogun red-card row

The Belgian Football Federation (RBFA) has stated that they will not endorse Gianni Infantino for another term as FIFA president unless they receive satisfactory answers about the handling of the Folarin Balogun red-card case at the 2022 World Cup and other governance concerns. Belgium's request for clarification stems from Balogun's red card suspension, which was later overturned by FIFA after US President Donald Trump intervened, allowing the US striker to participate in Belgium's World Cup last-16 match against them.

RBFA emphasized the need for transparency and rigorous governance, asserting that such instances should be dealt with in an open and responsible manner. They have requested FIFA to include the Balogun case on the agenda for their upcoming Council meeting on October 15. Additionally, the federation raised concerns about FIFA's Forward Enterprise, citing several unexplained decisions and assessments that raise broader issues of transparency and governance.

RBFA President Pascale Van Damme expressed disappointment over the lack of answers two months after the incident, urging FIFA to provide necessary clarifications to bolster trust among all parties involved. The Belgian federation maintains close communication with UEFA on these matters and is committed to pushing for greater transparency in FIFA's decision-making processes.