Infantino comments on the cancellation of Balogun's red card: The independence of disciplinary committees is a red line.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that the decision of the independent disciplinary committee to overturn Folarin Balogun's punishment was made entirely independently, stressing his full respect for the decisions of the judicial bodies within the federation.

Infantino said: "I have seen the public comments on the decision of the independent disciplinary committee regarding the suspension of Folarin Balogun, and I would like to emphasize a fundamental principle of FIFA governance: the judicial bodies are independent. These committees operate independently, apply the disciplinary code, and decide cases based on the regulations and the facts presented. Their independence is the foundation of football's credibility and integrity, and this must always be respected."

He added: "I regularly discuss World Cup matters with heads of state, and I have already received a call from President Donald Trump regarding this issue. I also receive calls from government officials and football stakeholders around the world. During the conversation, I explained that there is a legal process underway through FIFA's independent judicial bodies, and that the case will be resolved in due course by the competent authorities. This is FIFA's system, and I will always abide by it."

The FIFA president concluded: "I review the Disciplinary Committee's decisions as soon as they are issued. Sometimes they surprise me, sometimes I agree with them, and sometimes I disagree. But I always respect those decisions and the independence of those who made them. Whether we personally like the decision or not is irrelevant. Respect for independent institutions and the rule of law is what protects the integrity of our competitions and FIFA's credibility at all times."