‘Football must never become a playground for political power’: Ex-FIFA president

 Former FIFA chief Sepp Blatter has voiced strong criticism after Folarin Balogun’s World Cup ban was overturned, suggesting political influence may have swayed the decision. Blatter warned football must remain free from political power, questioning FIFA’s independence. The U.S. player’s red card was rescinded following a reported intervention, sparking outrage from Belgium and raising concerns about the sport’s disciplinary integrity. Former FIFA chief Sepp Blatter has voiced strong criticism after Folarin Balogun’s World Cup ban was overturned, suggesting political influence may have swayed the decision. Blatter warned football must remain free from political power, questioning FIFA’s independence. The U.S. player’s red card was rescinded following a reported intervention, sparking outrage from Belgium and raising concerns about the sport’s disciplinary integrity.