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It later emerged that Trump, who has close ties with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, personally intervened after describing Claus’ decision to send off Balogun as “horrible”.

“I think it [the suspension] would have left a big stain,” Trump said before the United States faced Belgium. “I can’t tell them what to do. I don’t believe they made the decision; I believe it was the commission that made the decision. And it was the right decision.”

Trump went further by describing Claus as “a little bit suspect”, adding: “If you check his past. Very suspect. I don’t want to say that because I don’t like to create controversy. If you like I’ll provide you with the past.” Watch the clip below:

After Claus’s integrity was called into question by arguably the most powerful person on the planet, FIFA have responded with a statement defending their South American match official. The statement reads:

“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.”

Pierluigi Collina, the legendary Italian official who now works as FIFA’s Referee Committee Chairman, added:

“Raphael Claus is refereeing at his second FIFA World Cup having been with us in Qatar in 2022. He is an experienced and highly respected referee and we maintain full confidence in him as a trusted match official.”

Christian Pulisic of the U.S. looks dejected as he applauds fans after the match following their elimination from the World Cup

Reuters/Blake Dahlin

Despite a suspension being placed on Balogun’s one-match ban, the United States were knocked out of the World Cup after suffering a heavy 4-1 defeat against Belgium.

• Despite a suspension being placed on Balogun’s one-match ban, the United States were knocked out of the World Cup after suffering a heavy 4-1 defeat against Belgium.