Fifa President Gianni Infantino has unleashed a fierce rebuttal against those critical of this summer's World Cup, characterising their concerns as 'hate and false rumours'. In an extensive essay published on Instagram on Sunday night, Infantino staunchly defended the tournament, portraying it as an unqualified triumph despite a raft of controversies that have drawn significant scrutiny and even calls for his resignation.
The tournament, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, was marred by several contentious issues. These included the USA's treatment of the Iranian national team, the denied entry of Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, and the exorbitant cost of tickets, which frequently overshadowed the on-pitch action. A particular flashpoint occurred when USA striker Folarin Balogun's red card ban was controversially suspended following a reported intervention from then-US President Donald Trump, making him available for a crucial last-16 match against Belgium. Fifa cited a rarely used clause in their regulations for this decision, despite the absence of an official appeals process for red cards during the World Cup.
Infantino, however, dismissed these criticisms as unfounded. In his essay, he wrote: “To all of you who missed watching kids, babies, grandparents, and parents come together for the beautiful game, I say sorry that the matches are now over and sorry that you missed all that joy and togetherness. Sorry that you were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all.” He contrasted the work of Fifa with that of critics, stating, “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.”
The Fifa President asserted that the tournament unfolded without a single negative incident. “Seven million people from over 200 countries enjoyed the tournament across 16 fantastic cities and stadiums: zero incidents, zero hostility, zero violence, just joy, emotions, happiness, unity and togetherness. All were safe, secure, and happy,” he claimed. He also addressed the difficulties faced by the Iranian team, who had many coaching staff denied visas and were forced to change their training base to Mexico. Infantino framed this as Fifa 'working tirelessly to unite two countries at war' and downplayed visa denials as insignificant compared to the millions approved.
Infantino concluded his lengthy post by urging respect for the teams, countries, and fans involved, suggesting it was time to “set aside your pens and keyboards and show some respect… Maybe it’s time to show some love.” His remarks have been widely compared to the rhetoric employed by Donald Trump, particularly in their dismissive tone towards criticism and portrayal of the event as an unblemished success.