Norway’s Football Federation is considering filing a formal complaint with FIFA’s Ethics Committee following the governing body’s decision to suspend the automatic one-match ban imposed on United States forward Folarin Balogun, according to international media reports.
The move comes after FIFA reversed Balogun’s suspension, a decision that has drawn criticism from several football bodies. Reports have claimed the reversal followed intervention by US President Donald Trump, although FIFA has not publicly confirmed that account.
Balogun featured despite red card
Balogun was shown a straight red card during the United States’ match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, which initially ruled him out of the Round of 16 clash against Belgium.
According to the reports, FIFA later suspended the one-match ban for 12 months, allowing Balogun to play against Belgium. The United States went on to lose the match 4-1.
Norway weighs ethics complaint
Norwegian Football Federation President Lise Klaveness said the federation is considering including the latest issue in a complaint already under review concerning FIFA’s decision to award Trump a “Peace Prize,” according to the same reports.
Belgium and UEFA raise concerns
The Belgian Football Federation and UEFA have also expressed concerns over FIFA’s handling of the matter.
Reports said Belgium requested an explanation for the decision, but FIFA declared the request inadmissible.
FIFA has not publicly provided a detailed explanation for its decision, and the matter remains the subject of debate among football authorities.
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