FIFA president Gianni Infantino has hit back at criticism of the 2026 World Cup, defending the tournament’s safety record, approach to visas and disciplinary calls.
Gianni Infantino has accused critics of the 2026 World Cup of fuelling negativity and pushing false narratives, launching a lengthy defence of FIFA’s handling of the tournament.
The FIFA president published an open letter a week on from Spain’s win over Argentina in the final, arguing that negative headlines had overshadowed the enjoyment felt by fans across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Infantino wrote:
“You were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all.”
Much of his response seemed directed at journalists and commentators who had questioned FIFA over visa issues, refereeing controversies and disciplinary calls. Infantino drew a line between those writing critically about the tournament and the FIFA staff working behind the scenes to deliver what he called “the best show in the world”.
This first 48-team World Cup stretched over five weeks and drew criticism for high ticket prices, extreme heat and the need for hydration breaks. Fans and officials from several countries also ran into problems getting into the United States.
Infantino also used the visa controversy to defend FIFA’s organisation of the tournament. Iran’s participation came against the backdrop of its conflict with the United States, while supporters and officials from several countries faced uncertainty over whether they would be allowed to travel.
“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,” Infantino wrote.
He then referred directly to Haiti, arguing that critics should show greater respect to teams which had reached the global stage despite serious difficulties at home.
Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan was among those blocked from entering the US, despite reportedly having a valid visa. Supporters and officials from Iran, Haiti, Senegal and Ivory Coast also faced travel headaches.
FIFA also faced questions after the automatic one-match ban given to United States striker Folarin Balogun was overturned following his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
US President Donald Trump later revealed that he had discussed Balogun’s case with Infantino before FIFA confirmed the forward could face Belgium in the last 16. FIFA insisted its independent disciplinary committee made the decision, but UEFA, the Belgian Football Association and European lawmakers raised concerns over possible political interference.
Infantino did not mention Balogun by name in his letter. Instead, he argued that questionable cards and decisions not to suspend players are “routine and widely accepted in some of the biggest leagues worldwide”, and that he found it curious that countries using similar processes had criticised FIFA.
The FIFA president also insisted the World Cup passed without major safety incidents, despite concerns before the tournament kicked off. He accused critics of “planting seeds of hate” while fans celebrated across the three host countries.
Infantino’s intervention offered little to those who raised legitimate concerns during the competition. His main message was that FIFA had delivered a safe, inclusive and successful tournament, even as parts of the media stayed focused on controversy.
Instead of letting Spain’s triumph close the tournament, the FIFA president has reopened some of its most divisive debates by taking on those who questioned the governing body’s decisions.
