Ilie Năstase criticized the organization of the World Cup and Donald Trump's intervention to cancel the suspension of striker Folarin Balogun

The former great Romanian tennis player Ilie Năstase, at the age of 79, expressed harsh criticism regarding the organization of the World Cup, stating that it was designed more for profit than for the sporting spectacle. Năstase, who has had a close relationship with Donald Trump since the '70s, reproached the U.S. president for his involvement in the cancellation of the suspension of American striker Folarin Balogun, considering that it created a dangerous precedent for political interference in sports.

The former tennis player emphasized that the organization of the current competition has neglected respect for fans and has been influenced by financial interests, suggesting that Americans are the ones who benefit the most from it. Năstase stated that if Trump made a mistake, he should acknowledge it, considering that other athletes have also criticized him for his actions.