The Football Association (FA) has declined to comment on its formal support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino amid growing controversy over the suspension of USA striker Folarin Balogun. The Norwegian Football Federation has announced plans to file a new complaint with FIFA’s ethics committee, alleging political interference in the disciplinary process surrounding Balogun’s ban.

The FA’s endorsement of Infantino reportedly predates the emergence of the Balogun case as a scandal, and it remains unclear whether the letter was influenced by subsequent developments. The suspension has come under scrutiny following US political involvement, notably after former President Donald Trump disclosed that he had requested Infantino’s intervention in the matter.

Lise Klaveness, president of the Norwegian Football Federation, publicly disclosed the intent to pursue a fresh ethics complaint this week, signaling the dispute could escalate further. FIFA has maintained that the suspension was solely the outcome of its disciplinary committee’s independent decision-making process.

The incident has raised questions over the potential impact of political pressure on FIFA’s governance and disciplinary actions, although the organization has denied any improper influence. As of now, the FA has refrained from addressing its role in supporting Infantino amidst the unfolding controversy.