Thierry Henry publicly criticized FIFA’s decision to overturn Folarin Balogun’s red card suspension ahead of the USA’s World Cup last-16 clash against Belgium on 14 July 2026. In a heated live TV exchange with Alexi Lalas, the French legend accused the governing body of inconsistency, arguing the reversal ‘fired up’ Belgium before their 4-1 victory at Seattle Stadium.

**Why did Henry and Lalas argue?** The dispute centered on FIFA’s reversal of Balogun’s one-match ban, which followed **US President Donald Trump’s intervention**. UEFA called it ‘unprecedented,’ while Belgium threatened legal action. Henry, a former Arsenal and France striker, insisted the red card was ‘not right’ and that FIFA’s late decision was ‘wrong.’

**What did Henry say about the decision?** On FOX Sports, Henry stated: *“What FIFA did wasn’t right. Article 27 doesn’t say that—it was the right thing not to give the red, but the way they rescinded it was wrong.”* He linked the reversal to Belgium’s celebratory mood, including players mocking Trump’s dance moves post-match.

**How did Lalas respond?** Lalas, a former USMNT captain, challenged Henry’s stance, comparing it to FIFA’s earlier overturning of Cristiano Ronaldo’s suspension. *“So Ronaldo shouldn’t have played in the World Cup either?”* he asked. Henry dismissed the comparison, insisting: *“I’m talking about Balogun.”*

**What’s next for Belgium and FIFA?** Belgium advances to the quarter-finals, where they’ll face Spain on **18 July 2026**. Meanwhile, other nations like England have reportedly considered similar appeals, raising questions about FIFA’s fairness. Henry’s criticism adds to growing scrutiny over the body’s handling of disciplinary decisions.