All the presidents’ meddling: the Balogun scandal shows how Fifa can break football | Barney Ronay

The recent controversy involving Folarin Balogun and his suspended red card, allegedly influenced by Trump's intervention, underscores the troubling trend of FIFA's leadership under Gianni Infantino prioritizing showmanship over fair play. This incident highlights FIFA's willingness to manipulate the sport for entertainment purposes, raising concerns about the integrity of the game. Such meddling by political figures not only undermines the spirit of football but also risks alienating fans who value fairness and competitive integrity. The broader implications suggest a worrying trend where football governance is increasingly susceptible to external political pressures.