ITV and FOX have both clarified that the booing heard during the World Cup semi-final between Spain and France was directed at Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, not FIFA president Gianni Infantino. The incident occurred when Infantino was shown smiling in the stands during the broadcast, prompting audible jeers from the crowd.
Broadcasters Explain the Confusion
During Spain's 2-0 victory over France in Dallas, goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro secured their place in the final. As the broadcast panned to Infantino, boos were heard. However, ITV commentator Sam Matterface quickly clarified: "Those boos weren't for Infantino, because here in the stadium the Dallas Cowboys owner, Jerry Jones, has come up on the jumbotron." FOX Sports echoed this explanation, noting that Infantino appeared on TV screens at the same time as Jones on the stadium's massive display.
Jerry Jones: A Divisive Figure
Jerry Jones, owner and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys, is a polarizing figure in the NFL, often criticized for his hands-on management style. The boos likely stemmed from local sentiment toward Jones rather than Infantino.
Skepticism on Social Media
Despite the broadcasters' statements, some fans remain unconvinced. One social media user wrote: "The boos for Infantino are genuine music to my ears. Try and cover it up with the Dallas Cowboys all you want, we all know it was for Infantino!" Another said: "No Matterface, they were definitely booing Infantino." A third added: "You sure those boos weren't for Infantino cos I was definitely booing." A fourth stated: "Those boos are definitely for Infantino."
Infantino's Controversial World Cup
The incident comes amid reports that Infantino is fighting to retain his position as FIFA president, facing potential competition at the April congress for a third term. The 2026 World Cup has been marked by controversy, including the suspension of USA striker Folarin Balogun's red card after a phone call from US President Donald Trump, and widespread criticism of mandatory hydration breaks in every match.
Despite the explanation, the moment has fueled ongoing debate about Infantino's popularity among fans.
