FIFA chief defends 2026 World Cup, accuses critics of spreading hate

FIFA President Gianni Infantino responded to recent criticism of the 2026 World Cup by saying the event was marked by safety, joy and unity for millions of fans worldwide. In an open letter posted on Instagram, Infantino asserted that the tournament experienced no violence or incidents and that the organization had delivered “the best show in the world.”

He directed his remarks at journalists and commentators, stating, > "You were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all," and > "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."

Infantino’s comments came after FIFA opened an investigation into an on-field altercation between Argentina and Spain players in the final held in New Jersey, and after the organization faced scrutiny over several issues, including U.S. visa restrictions that affected officials and supporters from countries such as Iran, Haiti, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Somalia. He highlighted that Iran’s team received visas and played without incident, and that other nations facing health crises or political tensions were also granted entry.

The president also addressed criticism of refereeing and disciplinary decisions, noting that “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 suggested that the same countries that employ such practices are now the ones criticizing FIFA.

Infantino’s letter followed a complaint filed by human-rights group FairSquare with the International Olympic Committee, alleging that he had breached the IOC’s political neutrality rules by expressing support for U.S. President Donald Trump.