By Charles Maduka
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has launched a strong defence of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, accusing critics of spreading “hate and false rumours” about the tournament one week after the final.
In a 900-word statement published on his Instagram page and FIFA’s official website, Infantino praised FIFA for delivering what he described as “the best show in the world” and said the tournament brought joy and togetherness to fans across the globe.
Addressing the media and critics directly, Infantino wrote: “Sorry that you were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all.”
He added that while fans were celebrating across host nations Canada, Mexico and the United States, critics were “busy planting seeds of hate.”
The FIFA president defended the organisation’s handling of several controversial issues during the World Cup, including visa restrictions affecting some supporters and officials, alleged political influence surrounding United States forward Folarin Balogun’s suspension, and complaints over ticket prices and commercial breaks during matches.
Infantino stated that FIFA worked tirelessly to ensure the tournament was inclusive and safe for supporters worldwide.
“While you hide, we are exploring the streets of Canada, Mexico and the United States, talking with fans, engaging with people, and ensuring everyone’s safety,” he said.
The FIFA president also addressed concerns surrounding Iran’s participation in the tournament. Iran’s ability to play matches in the United States had been a major talking point before the competition due to geopolitical tensions.
According to Infantino, Iran entered the United States without incident and FIFA’s efforts helped unite “two countries at war” through football.
He also defended FIFA’s handling of Balogun’s red card incident. Rather than imposing an immediate one-match suspension, FIFA deferred the ban during a probationary period, a decision that attracted widespread criticism during the tournament.
Infantino insisted that such disciplinary decisions are routine in certain situations.
The FIFA president acknowledged his increasingly strained relationship with sections of the international media. During a press conference in Mexico City before the tournament, he urged critics to “chill” and “relax” when discussing FIFA and the World Cup.
Concluding his statement, Infantino urged critics to focus on football’s ability to unite people.
“To those spending their time and energy hating us, please take a moment to reflect, meditate, pray, or watch a football match and truly observe the faces, the eyes, the emotions,” he wrote.
He ended his message by saying, “Much love to all.”
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