FIFA President Gianni Infantino has issued a strongly worded open letter, accusing critics of the recent World Cup of spreading “hate and false narratives,” while defending the tournament as a global celebration of unity, safety, and inclusion.
Infantino, 56, argued that detractors overlooked the joy experienced by millions of fans during the tournament, which was held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico and won by Spain. “You were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all,” Infantino wrote, emphasizing the event’s absence of violence and its atmosphere of “only joy and happiness.”
The World Cup faced criticism for various issues—including US visa restrictions affecting supporters and officials, officiating controversies, and FIFA’s handling of disciplinary cases such as the Folarin Balogun red card incident. Infantino did not shy away from these points, asserting that refereeing and disciplinary decisions criticized during the tournament are “routine and widely accepted” in major leagues around the world.
He also highlighted football’s ability to transcend political and health challenges, citing the smooth participation of countries like Iran, Haiti, and the Democratic Republic of Congo despite visa and travel hurdles. “Iran entered the United States without incident or conflict. The Iranian team received visas to enter because football is about peace. It’s not about politics,” he stated.
Infantino’s message was clear: “While you are sitting behind, we at FIFA are on the front lines organising, working hard, and delivering the best show in the world.”
With his open letter, Infantino called for respect and recognition for the teams and fans who made the tournament a success, urging critics to look beyond negativity and appreciate football’s power to unite.
