Norway Files Complaint Against FIFA Over Suspicious Pardon Following Trump's Call

In an interview with the British newspaper The Times, Klaveness stated her refusal to ignore US President Donald Trump's intervention in the championship's proceedings. She also accused FIFA officials of attempting to cover up the incident.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Trump have faced sharp criticism for several weeks. American striker Balogun was controversially pardoned after receiving a red card, allowing him to play in the World Cup Round of 16 against Belgium.

The unprecedented lifting of the suspension followed a phone call from Trump to Infantino. Despite this, Balogun could not prevent the host nation USA from losing 1-4 to Belgium.

"Anyone who breaks such a rule embarks on a dangerous path and jeopardizes the entire sport," declared the 45-year-old Klaveness. The Norwegian Football Federation, she added, demands a full clarification of the case, particularly regarding the circumstances of Trump's call with Infantino. DPA news agency reported on the matter.