Pierluigi Collina defends referee Raphael Claus following Donald Trump's 'suspect' claims
FIFA refereeing chief Pierluigi Collina has publicly backed referee Raphael Claus after Donald Trump questioned his integrity following a red card for Folarin Balogun at the 2026 World Cup.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0 / Author: Cynthia Braems
FIFA's refereeing chief Pierluigi Collina has issued a strong defence of referee Raphael Claus after Donald Trump publicly questioned the Brazilian official's integrity. The controversy erupted during the 2026 World Cup when Claus dismissed USMNT striker Folarin Balogun during a group stage clash against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Collina made FIFA's position clear in an official statement:
FIFA recognises Raphael Claus as one of the world's leading professional referees and a valued member of Team One at the FIFA World Cup. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
Donald Trump had criticized the officiating during a White House speech, labeling the referee's performance as "very suspect" and disputing the red card decision. Following his remarks, Trump successfully lobbied FIFA President Gianni Infantino to have Balogun's one-match ban suspended, allowing the striker to play in the round of 16 match against Belgium.
The decision to allow political discussion to directly influence sporting disciplinary outcomes has caused significant shockwaves. Although the United States was ultimately eliminated by Belgium in a 4-1 defeat, the precedent set by the political intervention has sparked ongoing debates, with other nations reportedly citing the case as a benchmark for their own disciplinary appeals.