FIFA president Gianni Infantino has defended the governing body’s handling of the World Cup, accusing critics of spreading hate and false narratives after Spain lifted the trophy at the tournament staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
In an open letter published on Monday, the 56-year-old said millions of supporters enjoyed a tournament built on unity, safety and inclusion. He argued that many critics ignored those achievements.
“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!”
FIFA faced criticism throughout the tournament over several issues. Debate surrounded United States visa restrictions affecting supporters and officials from a number of countries. The governing body also came under scrutiny after suspending the automatic one-match ban handed to United States striker Folarin Balogun following intervention from U.S. President Donald Trump. Refereeing decisions during Argentina’s match against Egypt also fuelled widespread debate.
Although Infantino did not mention individual cases, he defended FIFA’s disciplinary process.
“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 said.
“It’s curious that the same countries employing these practices are the ones criticising.”
Infantino also pointed to football’s ability to unite countries facing political conflict, health emergencies and domestic instability. He highlighted Iran’s participation despite tensions with the United States and said teams from countries facing wider challenges still travelled to the tournament.
“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.”
“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.”
