By Oscar Okhifo
Former Germany goalkeeper Oliver Kahn has mocked FIFA over its decision to overturn United States striker Folarin Balogun’s suspension during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, sarcastically suggesting that football’s governing body should also consider replaying the 2002 World Cup final.
Kahn made the remark in a post on X on Tuesday as controversy continued to trail FIFA’s decision to rescind Balogun’s automatic one-match ban, allowing the forward to feature in the United States’ Round of 16 clash against Belgium despite his earlier red card.
“AT THIS RATE, WE MIGHT AS WELL REPLAY THE 2002 WORLD CUP FINAL AGAINST BRAZIL AGAIN,” Kahn wrote, adding a laughing emoji.
The post quickly gained attention across social media, with many interpreting it as a swipe at FIFA’s handling of the Balogun case, which has become one of the biggest controversies of the 2026 World Cup.
The debate intensified after reports claimed that U.S. President Donald Trump personally appealed to FIFA President Gianni Infantino over Balogun’s suspension before the sanction was overturned.
FIFA has denied any political interference, insisting the decision was made in line with its disciplinary regulations.
Kahn’s reference to the 2002 World Cup final recalled Germany’s 2-0 defeat to Brazil in Yokohama, where Ronaldo scored twice to hand the South Americans a record fifth FIFA World Cup title.
Despite ending on the losing side, Kahn received the Golden Ball award as the tournament’s best player, becoming the only goalkeeper in World Cup history to win the honour.
His comments add to growing criticism from former players, football administrators and supporters who have questioned FIFA’s handling of the Balogun case, arguing that the reversal has raised concerns about consistency, fairness and the integrity of the competition.
Although Balogun was ultimately cleared to play, the decision had little impact on the United States’ campaign as the tournament hosts were beaten 4-1 by Belgium and eliminated in the Round of 16.
The controversy has also intensified scrutiny of FIFA President Gianni Infantino, with some former players and football stakeholders calling for his resignation over the handling of the matter.
Critics argue that overturning the suspension has undermined confidence in the tournament’s disciplinary process, a claim Infantino has repeatedly rejected while maintaining that FIFA acted within its rules.
The issue continues to cast a shadow over the World Cup even as the tournament advances.
Portugal’s exit has also brought managerial changes, with head coach Roberto Martínez stepping down following his side’s elimination.
As of the time of filing this report, neither FIFA nor Balogun had publicly responded to Kahn’s remarks.
Whether FIFA’s explanations will ease the criticism or fuel further debate remains unclear, but the Balogun suspension saga has emerged as one of the defining talking points of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and is likely to remain under scrutiny long after the tournament concludes.