Norway Lodges Formal Complaint Over Donald Trump's Role in Folarin Balogun Red Card Controversy
The controversy surrounding Folarin Balogun disrupted the dynamics of the 2026 World Cup. Although the US team was eliminated by Belgium, Norway’s Football Federation President, Lise Klaveness, is pushing to file a formal complaint about how Balogun’s suspension was overturned.
Many soccer nations expressed outrage after it was revealed that former President Donald Trump intervened in the decision regarding Balogun's one-match ban. Norway has now joined the list of those demanding answers.
Why Norway Is Taking Action
Klaveness told The Times she plans to request her federation’s board to launch a formal complaint with FIFA concerning the reversal of Balogun’s World Cup ban, as reported by ESPN.
"Trying to sweep this under the rug now won’t work," Klaveness stated. "Bending the rules like this leads down a dangerous path that threatens the integrity of football."
She added that external influence tainted the process, emphasizing the risk when political leaders interfere with the sport’s governance. According to her, the line between sport and politics must remain clear to protect the game's fairness.
Klaveness also pointed out that FIFA President Gianni Infantino had awarded Trump the FIFA Peace Prize shortly before the tournament began, adding another layer of complexity to the issue.
Details on Trump’s Involvement
Trump openly confirmed contacting Infantino, saying he "asked for a review" of the red card but denied telling anyone what to do. He described the original decision as "horrible," arguing it was unfair to penalize a player for a match not yet played.
"I spoke to a man who is highly respected... I'm the one that got them to do it," Trump said, referring to Infantino.
Infantino acknowledged the call but denied any direct impact from Trump on the decision. He explained to ESPN that FIFA’s independent judicial bodies handle such matters, and the process was followed accordingly.
The Incident Behind the Red Card
During the Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, Balogun was shown a red card after making contact with Tarik Muharemovic using his cleats’ studs. The incident was reviewed before the card was issued.
This suspension was set to sideline Balogun for the Round of 16 match versus Belgium. After Trump's intervention, FIFA disciplinary committee chair Mohammad Al Kamali reportedly overturned the ban, allowing Balogun to play.
Despite Balogun’s return, the U.S. lost 4-1 to Belgium and exited the tournament.
