How Folarin Balogun's Red Card Led to Free Pizza for Some US Fans
During the World Cup Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, Folarin Balogun received a red card, ruling him out for the upcoming clash with Belgium. The U.S. team lost their top scorer, who had netted three goals in the tournament so far. Despite this setback for the team, some American fans found a silver lining: free pizza.
The Domino's Promotion Explained
Domino’s Pizza launched a special promotion titled "Emergency Pizzas for Red Card" before the World Cup began. Their offer promised that if any player from the U.S. national team got a red card during a World Cup game, selected entrants would receive coupons for free or discounted pizzas.
The promotional message was clear: "We’re definitely not rooting for one, but if the U.S. is handed a red card, there’s nothing like a free pizza to help make it a little better." Fans had until June 10 to sign up for eligibility. When Balogun was sent off on July 1, Domino's randomly picked up to 63,371 participants to receive a coupon for a free medium two-topping pizza. Everyone else who signed up got a consolation coupon for 20% off select menu items.
Details of Balogun’s Red Card Incident
Balogun was shown the red card in the 64th minute for serious foul play after his studs struck the ankle of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Tarik Muharemovic. The referee initially did not issue any card, but after a VAR review prompted by the Brazilian official Raphael Claus, the red card was confirmed.
The decision sparked controversy since Balogun appeared to be genuinely contesting the ball without harmful intent. His ejection meant the U.S. played the remainder of the match with ten men. Furthermore, he will miss the next game against Belgium due to suspension, with no appeal allowed for red cards at the World Cup.
How to Claim Your Domino’s Pizza
Those who registered for the Domino’s promotion by the deadline do not need to take extra steps. Coupons will arrive via email, either for the free medium pizza or the 20% discount. Anyone who missed the June 10 signup date is unfortunately not eligible for these offers.
