FIFA chief Gianni Infantino has hit back at critics who claim the 2026 FIFA World Cup was tarnished by issues such as “hate and false rumours” and maintained it as the event to bring people across the globe together.
In an open letter posted on Instagram, Infantino claimed that the event, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico with Spain claiming the title, brought happiness to millions of fans, despite a certain amount of criticism surrounding the officiating, traveling and discipline.
Again, you were so wrapped up in hatred and criticism, you failed to notice any of this,” wrote Infantino. “We had no violence, no incidents, absolute safety & security, only joy & happiness.
His comments followed FIFA’s announcement that it was probing a pitch-side confrontation between players of Argentina and Spain during the World Cup final in New Jersey.
In addition, questions were raised about the tournament’s travel restrictions on supporters and officials such as Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was refused entry into the United States with a valid visa. Iran also faced considerable travel difficulties at the competition.
Many of the protests were rebuffed by Infantino, who said simply that “controversial decisions in refereeing and discipline are part and parcel of football”. Infantino also stated that “football has once again united nations…” despite political problems and logistical setbacks that surrounded the tournament, maintaining that the World Cup’s positives far outweighed its negatives.
