FIFA President Gianni Infantino slams World Cup critics in 15-page memo

Reacting to the 2026 World Cup, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has hit out at critics, urging them to “meditate, pray or watch a football match” instead of “spending time hating” the governing body. In a lengthy statement on social media, Infantino defended FIFA’s handling of the tournament, insisting the World Cup should be remembered for bringing people together rather than the controversy surrounding it.

The FIFA boss, who did not address the media during or after the tournament, said the competition showcased “humanity at its best” and accused some of the media and critics of overlooking the joy experienced by billions football fans around the world.

“If you have some extra time, instead of hating it, meditate, pray, smile, spend it with your loved ones or watch a football game.”

“To all of you who missed out on watching kids, babies, grandparents and parents come together for the beautiful game, I’m sorry the games are over and I’m sorry you missed all the joy and togetherness.”

“Sorry you were so consumed by the hate and criticism that you missed it all.

Infantino also defended FIFA’s work during the tournament, saying the organization remained focused on delivering the world’s biggest sporting spectacle despite constant scrutiny.

INFANTINO TO DEFEND THE 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP

Infantino described the World Cup as a celebration of football that attracted billions of viewers around the world and praised the efforts of volunteers, host countries and security personnel. He maintained that the tournament was run safely and argued that isolated refereeing and disciplinary disputes should not overshadow the success of the event.

He also dismissed criticism surrounding FIFA’s disciplinary decisions, saying similar calls are routinely made in domestic leagues around the world.

THE WORLD CUP HAS FACED SEVERAL CONTROVERSIES

Despite Infantino’s rave reviews, the tournament was overshadowed by several off-field issues. Fans and officials from countries including Iran, Senegal, Haiti and Ivory Coast have faced visa restrictions due to US travel policy, while FIFA has also been investigated over ticket prices.

The governing body was further criticized after the suspension of United States striker Folarin Balogun was lifted around 4 p.m., prompting accusations of political interference after US President Donald Trump revealed he had spoken to Infantino about the case. UEFA, the Belgian Football Federation and several European lawmakers contested the decision, while UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin boycotted the World Cup final in protest at FIFA’s handling of several issues.

Infanta’s post also omitted references to some of the tournament’s biggest controversies, including the deaths of four fans during World Cup celebrations in Mexico City and ongoing legal disputes involving Iranian supporters. Still, the FIFA president argued that the competition had fulfilled its primary goal of uniting people through football and should be remembered for its global impact rather than the subsequent criticism.

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Issued by:

Debodinna Chakraborty

Published on:

27 Jul 2026 10:42 IST