U.S. Soccer Personnel Suspended During World Cup Match

United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino observed the team during the World Cup round of 16 match against Belgium in Seattle on Monday, July 6, 2026. The game ended with a 4-1 loss for the U.S., resulting in their elimination from the tournament.

Prior to the match, two members of the U.S. soccer team staff were suspended by FIFA. The disciplinary action barred team manager Sam Zapatka and U.S. Soccer Federation vice president of security Frank Pannell from participating in Monday’s game. FIFA did not provide specific reasons for the suspensions.

The U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) has been reticent regarding the matter. On Tuesday, the USSF stated that the suspensions were unrelated to their recent effort to overturn Folarin Balogun’s red-card suspension. Balogun’s suspension had been lifted successfully, allowing him to play in the match.

Since 2020, Zapatka has served as the administrative manager for the team and has been with the USSF since 2015. Details surrounding the suspensions remain unclear, leaving stakeholders and fans seeking further information.

Read more on AP’s World Cup coverage for additional information on this developing story.