Norway Files Formal Complaint Over Trump’s Role in Folarin Balogun Red Card Reversal

The controversy surrounding Folarin Balogun shook the 2026 World Cup landscape. Despite the U.S. team still losing 4-1 to Belgium and bowing out, the Norwegian Football Federation is pushing back against the decision to overturn Balogun’s red card suspension. Norway’s football chief, Lise Klaveness, has announced plans to lodge a formal complaint regarding this unusual reversal.

Several countries expressed disapproval after President Donald Trump reportedly intervened in the one-match ban. Norway now joins the list of those raising concerns about fairness and transparency.

Norwegian FA Takes FIFA to Task

Klaveness told The Times she will urge the Norwegian Football Federation board to file a complaint with FIFA's ethics committee over Trump’s involvement. She warned that compromising rules sets a dangerous precedent.

“Trying to sweep this under the rug now won’t work. When you bend a rule like this, you’re on a slippery slope that puts the whole game at risk,” Klaveness said. “We all know external pressure influenced this verdict without proper procedure.”

She also pointed out the odd timing of FIFA President Gianni Infantino awarding Trump the FIFA Peace Prize just before the tournament began.

Trump’s Admission and FIFA’s Response

Trump admitted to calling Infantino and requesting a review of Balogun’s red card. “I didn’t tell him what to do, I can’t tell him what to do,” Trump said, labeling the red card decision as “horrible” and unfair since it penalized a player for a future game. He credited himself with prompting the review.

Infantino confirmed the call but denied any direct influence from Trump in overturning the suspension. He explained that many leaders contact him, and all cases undergo independent judicial processes within FIFA.

Details of the Red Card Incident

During the Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, Balogun made contact with Tarik Muharemovic’s back with his cleats. After video review, referees issued a red card, resulting in a one-match ban that would sideline Balogun for the U.S. clash with Belgium.

Following Trump's intervention, the suspension was lifted by FIFA disciplinary committee chair Mohammad Al Kamali alone, allowing Balogun to play against Belgium. Despite his return, the U.S. lost 4-1 and exited the World Cup.