UEFA is preparing to respond after FIFA’s decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s one-match ban sparked criticism across European football, with the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA) also exploring possible action.
A senior UEFA official, speaking anonymously because discussions remain ongoing, said no final decision had been made. However, a person familiar with the matter said UEFA was expected to issue a statement on Monday backing the Belgian association following FIFA’s ruling.
The controversy arose after Balogun was cleared to play against Belgium despite being sent off in his previous match, a decision that directly affected the UEFA member nation.
“In order to safeguard the legitimate rights of all participating teams and to protect the fundamental principles of fair play in our sport, both at this FIFA World Cup and at future editions of the tournament, the RBFA is investigating all potential options,” the Belgian association said in a statement.
The decision has also drawn criticism from within FIFA itself. One of the governing body’s vice presidents described the ruling as an “utter disgrace” in a WhatsApp message to POLITICO, speaking anonymously to discuss the matter candidly.
