FIFA president Gianni Infantino has launched an extraordinary defence of the World Cup, accusing critics of 'spreading hate and false rumours' and telling them to 'reflect, meditate and pray'.
Infantino's Defiant Message
The expanded 48-team men's 2026 tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, finished last weekend when Spain beat Argentina 1-0 in the final after extra time. It was a competition full of off-field drama, headlines and controversy, most notably surrounding ticket prices, the introduction of hydration breaks, the situation regarding Iran's participation amid their conflict with the USA and the shock suspension of USA striker Folarin Balogun's one-game ban.
Infantino himself has been subject to stern criticism, but in a remarkable 890-word open letter posted both by FIFA and also by Infantino via a 15-slide Instagram message, he insisted the World Cup was a roaring success.
Quote from the Letter
Infantino said: "To everyone who missed our beautiful game, the emotions, the celebrations, the laughter, the crying, the deception, and the joy. To all of you who missed watching kids, babies, grandparents, and parents come together for the beautiful game, I say sorry that the matches are now over and sorry that you missed all that joy and togetherness. Sorry that you were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all."
Defending the Tournament
He added: "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. 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. While you divide, we unite."
Infantino also stated: "People came together as families, as fans, as one. We experienced no violence, no incidents, 100% safety and security, only joy and happiness! Seven million people from over 200 countries enjoyed the tournament across 16 fantastic cities and stadiums: zero incidents, zero hostility, zero violence, just joy, emotions, happiness, unity, and togetherness. All were safe, secure, and happy."
Iran and Visa Issues
Writing further on Iran's participation, Infantino said the team "entered the United States without incident or conflict" and that "when the Iranian team began playing, all the chants against them turned into a single song." On visa denials, he noted that "countries facing serious health issues or other challenges were granted visas" and that "the few people denied visas" should not overshadow the millions approved.
Balogun Controversy
Infantino also addressed the controversial decision to suspend USA striker Balogun's red card for 12 months after an intervention by US President Donald Trump. He said such decisions are "common in some of the most important leagues" and that it is "curious that the same countries employing these practices are the ones criticising." He concluded by praising the host governments for their contributions.
