Gianni Infantino Defends FIFA World Cup Against Critics

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has strongly defended the FIFA World Cup, accusing critics of spreading false claims and ignoring what he described as a successful tournament built on unity, safety and inclusion.

In an open letter published on Monday, the 56-year-old said many critics overlooked the excitement and togetherness enjoyed by millions of supporters during the competition. The tournament, won by Spain, took place across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

“You were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all,” he said.

Infantino also criticised those who questioned the event, saying FIFA focused on delivering a memorable tournament while others spread negative stories.

“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!”

The FIFA World Cup attracted criticism over several issues, including U.S. visa restrictions affecting supporters and officials from some countries, as well as concerns involving teams from conflict-affected regions. The tournament also faced questions over FIFA’s handling of the Folarin Balogun disciplinary case, after the automatic one-match suspension following his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina was lifted following the intervention of U.S. President Donald Trump. Debate also surrounded refereeing decisions during Argentina’s match against Egypt.

Although Infantino did not mention individual incidents, he argued that disputed refereeing and disciplinary decisions happen regularly in football. He said FIFA World Cup critics were condemning practices that are common in many leading leagues.

“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 added.

“It’s curious that the same countries employing these practices are the ones criticising.”

Infantino also highlighted football’s ability to unite people despite political tensions and humanitarian challenges. He pointed to the participation of countries facing conflict, health emergencies and domestic crises, including Iran, Haiti and the Democratic Republic of Congo. He also noted that Somali World Cup referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan was refused entry into the United States despite holding a valid visa.

“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,” he said.

“Countries facing serious health issues or other challenges ‌were granted visas.

“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.”

Do you think the FIFA World Cup successfully balanced football with the political and logistical challenges surrounding the tournament?