FIFA president Gianni Infantino has issued a lengthy open letter defending the World Cup and hitting back at critics, urging them to 'rise above hate'. The 56-year-old penned the 886-word response on his personal Instagram account and FIFA's website after being criticised for several issues during the tournament.
Infantino Hits Back at Critics
Infantino addressed those who were 'so consumed by hate and criticism' that they 'missed watching kids, babies, grandparents, and parents come together for the beautiful game' at 'the best show in the world'. He claimed there were 'zero incidents, zero hostility, zero violence, just joy, emotions, happiness, unity, and togetherness' and that 'virtually all global celebrities from music, movies, entertainment, and sports attended'.
Controversies at the World Cup
The tournament, held across the US, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, was marred by several incidents. Issues began before the event when Somali referee Omar Artan had his visa rejected, and Iran faced severe problems entering the United States. A major controversy was the overturning of Folarin Balogun's red card after US President Donald Trump intervened. Inflated ticket costs and the introduction of hydration breaks were also criticised. The final, where Spain beat Argentina, was tarnished by the conduct of certain Argentina players and coaching personnel. Infantino attended the final alongside Trump in New Jersey.
Defence of Balogun Red Card
Infantino defended the red card decision, stating: 'Your dissatisfaction with a few decisions made by the competent authorities is understandable, but please refer to public records: such decisions are common in some of the most important leagues.' He added that 'arguable' referees' decisions or 'strange' disciplinary rulings are routine and widely accepted in some of the biggest leagues worldwide, calling it curious that the same countries criticising these practices employ them.
Final Message
Infantino concluded with a pointed message: 'To the pens and papers, to all the screens, may you find love and peace where the people behind you couldn't. May you find peace; we at FIFA have found ours and we deliver it, by delivering the most outstanding FIFA World Cup. May football rise above all hate.' He also mentioned that Iran entered the United States without incident, that visas were granted to many, and that the tournament showcased football uniting the world.
