Key facts
- Fifa President Gianni Infantino criticized World Cup critics as 'consumed by hate' in an Instagram post.
- Infantino defended the 2026 World Cup's organization and success, calling it the 'best show in the world'.
- He addressed controversies such as visa issues for the Iranian team and a disciplinary ruling for US striker Folarin Balogun.
- Infantino compared the Balogun ruling to similar decisions in major football leagues, questioning the criticism.
- Fifa is investigating the Argentine team's behavior following the World Cup final.
- Infantino concluded his post by wishing love and peace to his critics.
Fifa President Gianni Infantino has launched a strong defense of the 2026 World Cup, dismissing critics as being 'consumed with hate' in a lengthy Instagram post. The post, comprising 15 slides, celebrated the tournament as the 'best show in the world' and pushed back against what Infantino described as 'false rumours' spread by those 'behind their screens'.
Infantino directly addressed several controversies, including the visa issues faced by the Iranian team and a Somali referee, Omar Artan, who was denied entry to the US. He also defended a controversial decision to suspend a one-match ban for USA striker Folarin Balogun, a decision reportedly influenced by a call from President Donald Trump. Infantino argued that such 'arguable' refereeing decisions and disciplinary rulings are common in major leagues worldwide and questioned the hypocrisy of those criticizing Fifa's actions.
The Fifa president also touched upon Iran's participation, stating that the country entered the US without incident, seemingly overlooking the visa delays that affected the team. He downplayed the visa denials for individuals, emphasizing the millions who were approved.
Following the World Cup final, which Spain won 1-0 against Lionel Messi's Argentina, Fifa has opened an investigation into the Argentine team's conduct. This follows separate incidents, including Argentine players displaying a banner claiming sovereignty over the Falkland Islands after their semifinal win against England.
Infantino concluded his extensive post by wishing love and peace to those spreading hate and false rumors, expressing pride in his contribution to the tournament.