---
title: "European Commissioner Glenn Micallef Criticises FIFA's Balogun Decision"
date: 2026-07-06T20:01:48.526+00:00
updated: 2026-07-07T05:03:28.065+00:00
topics: ["Politics", "International", "Sport"]
canonical: https://filqosor.com/article/2026-07-06/european-commissioner-glenn-micallef-criticises-fifas-balogun-decision
source: Fil-Qosor
---

# European Commissioner Glenn Micallef Criticises FIFA's Balogun Decision

## In brief

- European Commissioner for Sport Glenn Micallef stated that FIFA's decision to allow US striker Folarin Balogun to play despite a red card was incorrect.
- Mr Micallef also warned against political interference in sporting matters.
- The controversy reportedly involves a phone call between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and former US President Donald Trump regarding the player's ban.

European Commissioner for Sport Glenn Micallef has publicly criticised FIFA's decision to allow United States striker Folarin Balogun to play despite having received a red card.

Mr Micallef stated that he believes the football governing body's decision was wrong. He also emphasised the importance of preventing political interference in sporting matters, noting that many football fans share his view on the issue.

According to reports, FIFA had suspended a one-match ban for Balogun. This decision followed an alleged phone call between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and former US President Donald Trump.

Mr Micallef's comments highlight ongoing concerns about the integrity of sporting decisions and the potential for external pressures to influence outcomes in international sports organisations.

ONE News has also weighed in on the controversy surrounding FIFA's decision to allow US striker Folarin Balogun to play despite a red card. The outlet criticised the decision and emphasised that politicians should not interfere in sporting matters. This echoes sentiments expressed earlier by European Commissioner for Sport Glenn Micallef, who also deemed FIFA's decision incorrect and warned against political intervention.

## The Spin Room

**Medium media divide.** ONE News, a partisan Labour outlet, echoed earlier criticisms of FIFA's decision and the call against political interference, without adding new specific details.

- **ONE News:** Focused on reiterating criticism of FIFA's decision and the principle of non-interference by politicians in sports.

## Updates

- **2026-07-07:** ONE News has also reported on the criticism of FIFA's Balogun decision, reiterating the call for politicians not to interfere in sporting matters.

## Sources (3)

- [ONE News](https://one.com.mt/jikkritika-d-decizjoni-tal-fifa-dwar-balogun-u-jinsisti-li-l-politici-mghandhomx-jindahlu/)
- [Lovin Malta](https://lovinmalta.com/news/local/glenn-micallef-says-fifa-got-balogun-call-wrong-warns-against-political-interference/)
- [Times of Malta](https://timesofmalta.com/article/fifa-wrong-suspend-usa-player-ban-says-glenn-micallef.1130995)

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