Trump questions World Cup referee Claus after Balogun red card overturn

United States President Donald Trump has publicly questioned the integrity of World Cup referee Raphael Claus, who sent off USMNT forward Folarin Balogun in the Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Trump's comments come after his intervention led to FIFA overturning Balogun's red card suspension, making him available for the Round of 16 clash against Belgium.

During the launch of Trump Accounts, the President labeled Claus as 'very, very suspect' and urged fans to 'check his past.' He described the incident as two players colliding at full speed, insisting it was not a foul or infraction. Trump added that Claus made a call 'no one could believe,' but refrained from elaborating further to avoid controversy.

Background on referee Raphael Claus

Claus, a 46-year-old Brazilian official, was previously investigated by Brazilian authorities as part of a 2024 parliamentary inquiry into match-fixing. He was summoned as a witness in the probe, though no charges were brought against him. The investigation adds context to Trump's remarks, though FIFA has not commented on the president's statements.

• Trump said Balogun's red card was unjust and called the referee 'suspect'.
• FIFA overturned Balogun's ban after Trump's reported intervention.
• Belgium filed an appeal against the decision hours before kick-off.
• Claus was investigated in 2024 for possible involvement in match-fixing.
• Critics have called for FIFA president Gianni Infantino to resign over the ruling.

The controversy continues to unfold as the USMNT prepares to face Belgium. Balogun is now eligible to play, but the fallout from Trump's remarks and FIFA's decision may have lasting implications for World Cup officiating and governance.