League: NWSL Sport: Soccer Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

NWSL free agency opens as controversy surrounds Folarin Balogun's red card

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 7, 2026, 6:16 AM

Last updated Jul 7, 2026

NWSL free agency opens as controversy surrounds Folarin Balogun's red card

Summary

NWSL free agency commenced on July 1, allowing players with expiring contracts to negotiate with teams. High-profile names like Rose Lavelle, Marta, and Sophia Wilson were mentioned among those eligible. Portland Thorns aim to retain Wilson amid interest from Denver Summit. Meanwhile, Folarin Balogun's red card was reversed, igniting debates about favoritism and integrity in U.S. soccer, potentially impacting the reputation of the U.S. Women's National Team.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•NWSL free agency began July 1 in preparation for 2027 season.
•Sophia Wilson is a key free agent target for Portland Thorns.
•Folarin Balogun's red card reversal has sparked controversy in U.S. soccer.
•Balogun's case could affect perceptions of the U.S. women's national team.
•Thorns GM Jeff Agoos emphasized efforts to keep Wilson in Portland.

Latest Updates

6:16 AMYahoo Sports — How the Folarin Balogun saga could impact the USWNT. Plus: NWSL free-agency primer

What they're saying

"
Full Time Newsletter ⚽| This is The Athletic’s weekly women’s soccer newsletter. Sign up here to receive Full Time directly in your inbox. I don’t know how to feel about Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding, but U.S. players Abby Wambach, Alex Morgan and Julie Ertz’s attendance did remind me of their post-World Cup appearance on Swift’s 1989 tour. How was this 11 years ago?! In today’s Full Time: 📝 Sophia Wilson free-agency update 🧳 What it’s like to move teams 🟥 And yes, Folarin Balogun’s re
— Yahoo Sports

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