FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the 2026 World Cup, accusing critics of spreading hate.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has launched a strong defense of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, accusing critics of spreading hate and false narratives while insisting the tournament was a landmark success that united fans across the globe.
The 56-year-old made his comments in an open letter published on Monday, reflecting on a competition co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, where Spain lifted the trophy. Infantino argued that millions of supporters experienced a safe, inclusive and joyful event despite the criticism that surrounded various aspects of the tournament.
This is what Gianni Infantino, @FIFAcom’s President, wrote a few hours ago. There is no doubt that he sees the media as an avowed enemy. pic.twitter.com/Ehu4OZTC7t
— Osasu Obayiuwana (@osasuo) July 27, 2026
“You were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all,” Infantino wrote. “To those behind their pens and papers, behind their screens spreading hate and false rumours, I want to say that while you are sitting behind, we at FIFA are on the front lines organising, working hard, and delivering the best show in the world. We experienced no violence, no incidents, 100% safety and security, only joy and happiness.”
Why the 2026 World Cup Faced Intense Scrutiny
Despite FIFA’s positive assessment, the tournament generated widespread debate throughout its duration.
Concerns were raised over United States visa restrictions that affected supporters, match officials and delegates from several countries, while FIFA also faced criticism over disciplinary decisions and controversial officiating during key matches.
One of the biggest talking points came after FIFA suspended the automatic one-match ban handed to United States striker Folarin Balogun following his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The decision, reportedly made after intervention from US President Donald Trump, sparked significant debate, while refereeing calls during Argentina’s clash with Egypt also divided opinion.
Although Infantino avoided addressing individual incidents directly, he argued that disputed refereeing decisions and disciplinary rulings are common across football. “Potentially mistaken red or yellow cards or subsequent decisions not to ban players in certain situations are routine and widely accepted in some of the biggest leagues worldwide,” he wrote, adding that it was “curious” that countries using similar practices were among FIFA’s strongest critics.
The FIFA president also defended the organization’s approach to politically sensitive issues, highlighting the participation of nations facing conflict, humanitarian crises and public health challenges. He pointed to Iran’s successful entry into the United States despite geopolitical tensions, as well as visa approvals involving countries affected by instability, including Haiti and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Infantino concluded by urging critics to acknowledge football’s power to unite people rather than focus solely on controversy. “Iran entered the United States without incident or conflict. The Iranian team received visas because football is about peace. It’s not about politics,” he wrote. “When football brought Haiti to the world, a country that many cannot or choose not to visit, it might be time to set aside your pens and keyboards and show some respect to the teams that played.”
