Brazil federation defends ref criticised by Trump in Balogun storm

Trump took a swipe at Brazilian referee Raphael Claus, who showed Balogun the red card, in the latest episode of a fraught relationship between Washington and Brasilia.

“There is nothing in his record that discredits him or gives grounds for any suspicion,” the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) said in a statement sent to AFP.

“The CBF rejects any insinuation casting doubt on Raphael Claus’s integrity. He is an exemplary professional.”

Trump confirmed Monday he asked FIFA boss Gianni Infantino to review the “horrible” decision to hand a red card to Balogun, but said he did not request it be overturned.

The Republican president — who said “I understand sports really well” — acknowledged that he was initially unaware that the red card meant Balogun was barred from the next game, saying the rule is “very unfair.”

Trump has had an up-and-down relationship with the administration of leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

Trump is a close ally of former right-wing president Jair Bolsonaro, whose son Flavio is running against Lula in October presidential elections.

His administration is threatening Brazil with new tariffs over alleged unfair trade practices.

Last year, Trump’s administration hit Brazil with steep tariffs over a coup trial against the now-jailed Jair Bolsonaro, 71.

However, the duties were lifted after a meeting between Lula and Trump.

Last month Lula warned Trump should “not meddle” in the upcoming election.