Politics
Belgians formally challenge Balogun decision
The Royal Belgian Football Association has formally challenged FIFA’s decision to withdraw the one-match suspension of U.S. striker Folarin Balogun, contesting his eligibility to play in tonight’s match between Belgium and the United States.
“The RBFA has still not received either a decision or any explanation from FIFA regarding this case. It therefore has no choice but to formally challenge the eligibility of the player concerned for the upcoming match,” the association stated on Monday.
“Regardless of the sporting outcome of the match, the RBFA has serious concerns about the way this matter has been handled. In the hours, days and months ahead, it will continue to defend the fundamental principles of ethics, fair competition and the interests of football as a whole,” the statement went on.
The move comes following criticism from both Belgian politicians and EU officials, who have questioned FIFA’s handling of the case after reports that U.S. President Donald Trump intervened by contacting FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
LONDON — As England continues its World Cup campaign, back across the Atlantic a political row about soccer’s drinking culture is in full swing.
U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer broke with his imminent successor Andy Burnham over whether soccer fans should be allowed to consume alcohol while watching games.
Starmer is due to hand over power to Burnham in two weeks and has promised a smooth transition and to support his successor without interfering from the sidelines.
But after Burnham said over the weekend that there was “something wrong” with a ban on fans drinking in view of the pitch — which he pointed out is allowed at rugby league games — and that he might overturn it, Starmer pushed back.
“Police chiefs have warned against the relaxing rules of drinking in the stands, and we think that’s sensible to follow,” a spokesperson for Starmer said this morning when asked whether he agrees with Burnham.
“Fans who go to matches in football league can drink before the game, in the concourse during half time and can stay late after the match or head to the pub, so there’s plenty of chances to get a drink. But it’s sensible to follow this advice.”
LONDON — U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is feeling “sleep-deprived” after watching England beat World Cup co-hosts Mexico in the small hours this morning.
Starmer watched the game — which kicked off at 2 a.m. London time — in his Downing Street flat with his teenage son.
“He’s a touch sleep-deprived this morning but incredibly proud of the team and incredibly proud to be English after that performance,” a spokesperson for the PM told reporters. “This morning’s victory in the heat of the Azteca stadium and at altitude against the host nation was up there for him as one of England’s best ever performances.”
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