Archive · 23 Jul 2026
Norway to Challenge FIFA Over Balogun Ban
The Norway Football Federation is upset because FIFA decided to let a player named Folarin Balogun play in the next match even though he was supposed to be suspended.
The NFF thinks this decision was unfair and might have been influenced by the US President.
They plan to complain to FIFA's ethics committee because they believe it sets a bad example for the sport.
FIFA says they followed their rules, but the NFF wants them to admit it was a mistake and warns that bending rules like this can harm the game.
The Norway Football Federation plans to file an ethics complaint with FIFA over the overturning of Folarin Balogun's suspension.
Balogun was shown a red card during the USA's Round of 32 victory, triggering an automatic suspension for the Round of 16.
FIFA invoked Article 27 of its Disciplinary Code to suspend the ban for a one-year probationary period.
The decision sparked criticism, with reports suggesting US President Donald Trump had spoken to FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
The NFF argues that the decision raises ethical concerns and undermines the integrity of the sport.
- Who
- Norway Football Federation (NFF) and FIFA
- What
- Controversy over the overturning of Folarin Balogun's suspension during the FIFA World Cup 2026
- When
- During the FIFA World Cup 2026
- Where
- United States (hosting the World Cup)
- Why
- The NFF believes the decision raises ethical concerns and undermines the integrity of the sport, potentially influenced by political factors.
Norway Football Federation
FIFA
Ethical Concerns
Norway Football Federation
The NFF argues that FIFA's decision to overturn Balogun's suspension raises serious ethical concerns and undermines the integrity of the sport.
FIFA
FIFA maintains that the decision was made in accordance with Article 27 of its Disciplinary Code, allowing for a probationary period.
Political Influence
Norway Football Federation
The NFF believes that political influence, particularly from US President Donald Trump, played a role in FIFA's decision, which they view as a compromise of fundamental rules.
FIFA
FIFA has not publicly confirmed any political influence in the decision-making process.
- Player Involved
- Folarin Balogun
- Team
- United States
- Match
- Round of 16 against Belgium
- FIFA Article Invoked
- Article 27 of FIFA's Disciplinary Code
- Norway FA President
- Lise Klaveness
- US President
- Donald Trump
- FIFA President
- Gianni Infantino
- Outcome
- USA lost 4-1 to Belgium and were knocked out of the World Cup
