Number of red cards in World Cup is already more than last two combined
The 2026 World Cup has seen a notable increase in red cards, with 13 issued so far-more than the combined total of the previous two tournaments (8 red cards in 2018 and 2022). The tournament is larger this time, with 93 matches played compared to 64 previously. Controversy surrounds the red card given to U.S. striker Folarin Balogun during a match against Bosnia and herzegovina; however,his suspension was overturned after president Donald Trump intervened by requesting FIFA to review the decision. Trump claims the overturn was solely made by FIFA and praises this decision, though some question if political pressure influenced it. The incident has sparked broader discussions about officiating and interference at the World Cup, with other requests for player suspension adjustments also being noted. The record for most red cards in a single World Cup remains 28, set in 2006.
The number of red cards issued in the 2026 World Cup is already more than the last two World Cup tournaments combined.
Just eight red cards were issued across the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups, with both years having four red cards each. This time around, 13 red cards have been handed out and the tournament isn’t even done with the Round of 16. The tournament is admittedly larger this time, with 93 matches having already been played, compared to just 64 in previous tournaments.
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The number of red cards issued this year is firmly in the spotlight thanks to the controversy surrounding U.S. striker Folarin Balogun.
Balogun was shown a red card during Team USA’s 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, that red card has now been suspended after President Donald Trump said he personally reached out to FIFA upon believing Balogun committed no fouls or infractions.
Had his red card not been overturned, Balogun would have missed the team’s match against Belgium later on Monday.
Trump’s admission to asking the FIFA president for a review of the red card issued against Balogun remains controversial. Some are wondering if FIFA’s decision is a response to political pressure.
However, Trump has said the decision was ultimately made by FIFA alone.
“I think it was a committee that made the decision,” he said. “They made the right decision, because number one, it wasn’t a foul, and you want to see a game with your best players.”
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Following the revelation that Trump spoke to FIFA about Balogun, a British member of Parliament, Noah Law, wrote to FIFA asking that the red-card suspension of England defender Jarell Quansah be delayed so he could face Norway in the quarterfinals. Quansah was shown a red during England’s 3-2 win over Mexico in the Round of 16.
The record for most red cards issued during a single World Cup is 28 in 2006.
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