Ex-USMNT Star: Trump and Infantino Opened Pandora's Box

Former USMNT star Herculez Gomez has voiced serious concerns after President Donald Trump reportedly called FIFA President Gianni Infantino to ask for a review of striker Folarin Balogun's suspension. Gomez believes this sets a dangerous precedent, allowing world leaders to use their influence to interfere in sports decisions.

In an interview on TMZ Live, Gomez stated that FIFA "opened Pandora's Box" by entertaining Trump's request. He emphasized that such actions undermine the credibility of international sports organizations and question the fairness of competitions. If one president can get a referee's decision overturned, why wouldn't others follow suit?

Recall that in the Round of 32 World Cup match against Bosnia, US striker Folarin Balogun received a straight red card after a VAR review. The referee deemed he had committed a foul, suspending him for the next game. However, FIFA unexpectedly revoked the suspension after Trump personally asked Infantino to review the incident.

Gomez believes this situation brings the United States back to being "that ugly big brother, that bully" who uses its power to get what it wants. He says this completely undermines the positive work the nation has done as World Cup hosts and as a team on the pitch. Instead of respect, the US risks gaining a reputation as a manipulator.

Now the US team is preparing for their Round of 16 match against Belgium on Monday, with controversy swirling: Balogun will play despite the initial referee decision. Although Gomez thinks the match controversy itself will blow over, he warns of deeper issues that leave "tread marks" — long-term consequences for sports integrity.

The expert fears that if political interference in FIFA's affairs becomes the norm, it will destroy trust in football institutions. Fans and teams must be confident that results are decided on the field, not in the offices of world leaders. For now, the Balogun case may be just the first link in a chain of dangerous precedents.