FIFA has expressed full support for Brazilian referee Raphael Claus after United States President Donald Trump questioned Claus's integrity following a controversial red card at the FIFA World Cup.

The incident involved United States striker Folarin Balogun, who was sent off by Claus after a VAR review during the last-32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Balogun received the red card for planting his boot into the ankle of Bosnian player Tarik Muharemovic.

Trump stated on Monday that he requested a review of the decision and described Claus as "a little bit suspect if you check his past," though he did not provide further details.

In response, FIFA issued a statement recognizing Raphael Claus as "one of the world's leading professional referees and a valued member of Team One – FIFA's elite group of referees – at the FIFA World Cup." The organization highlighted Claus's consistent demonstration of professionalism and integrity throughout his career.

FIFA also noted that Claus was unavailable for comment, adhering to its policy that referees do not speak to the media during the tournament. FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the importance of respecting referees and the rules governing the game, stating, "Once more, I reiterate that we must respect the referees and respect the rules that govern our game."

Pierluigi Collina, FIFA's chief refereeing officer and chairman of the Referees Committee, reaffirmed FIFA's confidence in Claus, noting that the 46-year-old referee has officiated over 600 matches and is currently refereeing his second FIFA World Cup, having also participated in the 2022 tournament in Qatar.

Sources