Gianni Infantino has strongly defended FIFA and the 2026 World Cup, accusing critics of spreading hate and false narratives.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has launched a strong defence of his leadership and the 2026 World Cup, accusing critics of “spreading hate” and overlooking the tournament’s positive impact.
According to The Telegraph, Infantino issued a 15-slide Instagram statement urging detractors to “reflect, meditate, pray or watch a football match” instead of focusing on controversy.
The FIFA chief dismissed criticism surrounding ticket pricing, visa restrictions, disciplinary decisions and other issues that overshadowed the tournament.
He praised the host nations, the United States, Canada and Mexico, and thanked volunteers, security personnel and local authorities, insisting the competition united millions of fans from more than 200 countries.
Infantino also maintained that football should rise above division, arguing that critics ignored the joy and togetherness created during the tournament.
His statement comes as FIFA continues to face scrutiny over several World Cup-related issues, including visa complaints, ticketing investigations and disciplinary decisions reported during and after the competition.
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