Infantino hits back at World Cup critics: Don't let hatred blind you, go to the stadium and feel the joy
Shortly after the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup, FIFA President Gianni Infantino issued a strongly worded statement, launching a fierce counterattack against tournament critics. He bluntly stated that these critics are "consumed by hatred" and suggested they "take a moment to reflect, meditate, pray, or simply go watch a football match in person." The statement, published simultaneously on Infantino's personal social media account and FIFA's official platforms, primarily defends the tournament's organization and rejects what he calls "hatred and false rumors" spread by outsiders.
Infantino's remarks clearly addressed multiple controversies during the World Cup: visa restrictions by the United States that prevented supporters and officials from participating nations like Iran, Haiti, and Senegal from entering smoothly; U.S. President Donald Trump's intervention that overturned an automatic suspension for American forward Folarin Balogun; and investigations into ticket pricing. In his statement, Infantino said: "For those children, babies, grandparents, and parents who came together through football — if you missed all of this, I feel sorry for you. The tournament is over, and you missed all the joy and unity." He further criticized: "I'm sorry you were so consumed by hatred and criticism that you turned a blind eye to all of this." He also directly addressed "those hiding behind pens and screens, spreading hatred and lies," emphasizing that FIFA "has always been at the forefront organizing events, working hard to present the most spectacular show to the world."
Infantino proudly claimed that this World Cup achieved "zero violence, zero incidents, 100% safety, only joy and happiness," adding that 7 million fans from over 200 countries attended matches in person. He specifically thanked the host nations Canada, Mexico, and the United States, along with their governments, police, and volunteers. Addressing visa controversies, he argued: "You only focus on the few who were denied visas, while ignoring the millions from around the world who were approved. Because of football, the world comes together." He also responded to criticism over disciplinary decisions, particularly the overturning of Balogun's suspension, sarcastically noting: "Controversial referee decisions or strange disciplinary rulings are common and widely accepted in some of the world's top leagues. Ironically, it is precisely the countries that adopt such practices that are now criticizing." Reports indicate that the Norwegian Football Federation subsequently stated it would file a formal complaint with FIFA over Trump's role in this case.
In the statement's conclusion, Infantino urged critics to focus on football's unifying power: "Those who spend time and energy hating us, please take a moment to reflect, meditate, pray, or go watch a football match. May football overcome all hatred."