Norway Lodges Formal Complaint Over Donald Trump’s Role in Folarin Balogun Red Card Reversal
The controversy around Folarin Balogun's red card has sent shockwaves through the 2026 World Cup. Despite the USMNT losing 4-1 to Belgium and being knocked out, the Norwegian Football Federation is determined to pursue action against the decision to overturn Balogun's suspension.
Several nations were angered by former President Donald Trump's confirmed involvement in the one-game ban reversal. Now, Norway joins the voices demanding accountability.
Norway Takes FIFA to Task
Lise Klaveness, president of the Norwegian Football Federation (NFF), told The Times she intends to ask her board to file a formal complaint with FIFA over how Balogun's ban was reversed, as reported by ESPN.
"Trying to sweep this under the rug now won't work," Klaveness warned.
She stressed the risks to football’s integrity when rules are bent. "When you compromise fundamental rules of the game, you're on a slippery slope that threatens the sport itself," she said. According to Klaveness, external pressure influenced the verdict without following proper procedures.
Klaveness added that if leaders from states start interfering like this, it blurs boundaries on what is acceptable interference in football governance.
She also pointed out that FIFA president Gianni Infantino awarded Trump the FIFA Peace Prize just before the tournament began.
Trump Admits to Contacting FIFA President
Trump confirmed that he called Infantino to request a review of Balogun’s suspension. He called the initial red card decision "horrible" and unfair since it prevented one of the team’s top players from participating in upcoming matches.
"I didn't tell him what to do, I can't tell him what to do," Trump said. "But I asked for a review by FIFA, and I spoke to a man who is highly respected. He pushed it. I'm the one that got them to do it."
Infantino acknowledged receiving the call but denied that Trump's involvement influenced the final decision. He explained that FIFA’s independent judicial bodies handled the case and that decisions would be made accordingly.
The Incident Behind the Controversy
The issue stemmed from the Round of 32 match between Team USA and Bosnia and Herzegovina. During the second half, Balogun's studs made contact with Tarik Muharemovic’s back, which after review led to a red card.
This suspension initially meant Balogun would miss the Round of 16 clash against Belgium. After Trump's intervention, the ban was lifted by FIFA disciplinary committee chair Mohammad Al Kamali, allowing Balogun to play.
Despite his return, the US team lost 4-1 to Belgium and exited the tournament.
