Katy Tur Blasts Trump for Making America Look Like Cheaters in World Cup Scandal

Katy Tur unleashed fury on Donald Trump, accusing him of making America "look like cheaters" after he pressured FIFA to reconsider a red card against striker Folarin Balogun.

The 80-year-old Republican confirmed he contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino, demanding a review of the red card issued during the United States' 2-0 victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina. Trump claimed he did not seek a specific outcome, but FIFA ultimately lifted Balogun's one-game suspension, allowing him to play in the round of 16 match against Belgium.

Despite Balogun's presence on the field, the U.S. team faced a crushing defeat, losing 4-1 and exiting the tournament. Tur suggested Trump's meddling undermined the team's performance before the critical match.

"He put his thumb on the scales and made us look like cheaters and ruined the vibes," Tur stated. "On the field, the Americans were hesitant. It’s not hard to imagine the global outrage over Trump’s call to FIFA might have weighed on them. You could frankly see the heaviness on Flo Balogun’s shoulders as he slowly made his way off the field."

Tur's remarks followed social media backlash against Trump for his intervention, with fans expressing anger and frustration. One fan claimed Trump "cursed" the team, while another demanded he "stay his a-- away from all American sports." A third fan bluntly stated, "Every single thing that man touches turns to s--t."

FIFA's decision to suspend Balogun's ban sparked mixed reactions. While many in the U.S. celebrated, international critics condemned it as an outrageous intrusion. The Belgian soccer federation contested Balogun's eligibility for the match, and UEFA labeled FIFA's actions as "incomprehensible and unjustifiable."

Balogun was ultimately allowed to compete against Belgium, but the U.S. team’s hopes were dashed with a decisive loss. Trump, who claimed to understand sports "really well," admitted he initially did not grasp the implications of a red card or its consequences.

Upon learning that a red card results in a one-game suspension, he felt compelled to intervene. He also criticized video reviews for making plays appear more aggressive than they are.

After Trump addressed the situation, Infantino released a statement clarifying their conversation and defending FIFA's independent disciplinary process. "During our conversation, I explained that there was an ongoing legal process involving FIFA's independent judicial bodies and that the case would be decided in due course by the competent bodies," Infantino stated.

Republican Senator Ted Cruz praised Trump for his actions, thanking him for overturning what he deemed a "ridiculous red card." Cruz described Trump's intervention as "spectacular." Secretary of State Marco Rubio also supported lifting Balogun's punishment.