US Soccer officials barred by FIFA from Belgium World Cup match over apparent protocol violations: report

Fox News' Jonathan Hunt highlights the ongoing FIFA red card controversy. FIFA has overturned the suspension of Team USA soccer star Folarin Balogun, allowing him to play in tonight's crucial match against Belgium. However, the Belgian team is expected to appeal FIFA's decision, creating further uncertainty just hours before the game.

FIFA issued suspensions to at least two key members of the U.S. Soccer Federation ahead of Monday's World Cup matchup with Belgium, according to multiple reports.

ESPN reported that team manager Sam Zapatka and U.S. Soccer Federation Vice President of Security Frank Pannell were the two staff members barred from the match. The U.S. went on to suffer a 4-1 loss to Belgium, ending its 2026 World Cup run.

The tournament's governing body did not provide a reason for the suspensions.

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A detailed view of the United States Soccer Federation crest logo is seen in the player and team tunnel in game action during an International friendly match between the United States and the Ecuador men's national teams on March 21, 2019, at Orlando City Stadium in Orlando, Florida. (Robin Alam/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

ESPN, citing sources, also reported that the suspensions were likely tied to incidents that occurred during Team USA's victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina last week in the Round of 32. The alleged violations involved FIFA match protocols and individuals possibly entering restricted areas. There were no known physical altercations.

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After joining the U.S. Soccer Federation in 2015, Zapatka was named team administrative manager in 2020.

While U.S. Soccer did