Trump Admits Involvement in Overturning US Player’s Red Card at 2026 World Cup

The controversy over the red card issued to US forward Paul Arriola during the 2026 World Cup continues to stir global football discussions. FIFA announced on July 5 that it had rescinded Arriola’s red card, allowing him to play in the round of 16 match against Belgium on the night of July 6-7. It later emerged that former US President Donald Trump was involved in the decision, having contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review and reversal of the red card ruling.

In a media appearance, Trump openly acknowledged his involvement, stating he asked for a reconsideration because he did not believe the foul warranted a red card. He described the incident as a collision between two great athletes rather than a violent act and argued that excluding a key player would have stained the tournament. Trump emphasized that he did not instruct Infantino on what to decide, noting that the final call was made by a committee, which he believes made the right choice.

Trump also expressed surprise at the concept of a red card, saying he initially did not understand its implications. He clarified that he personally contacted FIFA for clarification, not President Joe Biden, whom he joked was asleep. Trump criticized the original referee’s decision as terrible and stressed the importance of having the best players on the field for a fair and exciting competition.

The incident highlights the unusual intersection of sports and politics at the 2026 World Cup and raises questions about external influence on officiating decisions in major tournaments. The US team will now face Belgium with their full squad intact, as the tournament proceeds.