FIFA president Gianni Infantino has strongly criticized those who have spoken out against the 2026 World Cup, accusing them of being “consumed by hate” and suggesting they take time to “reflect, meditate, pray, or watch a football match.”
In an extensive statement released after the tournament concluded, Infantino defended FIFA’s management of the World Cup, arguing that detractors had overlooked the “joy and togetherness” of the event, opting instead to “spread hate and false rumors” rather than celebrate the game.
This message, which seems to target journalists, was shared on Infantino’s personal Instagram and FIFA’s official channels, following a World Cup marked by controversies, such as visa restrictions in the United States affecting fans and officials from various competing nations, the suspension of American player Folarin Balogun due to intervention from U.S. President Donald Trump, and rising concerns over World Cup ticket pricing.
“To those who missed the chance to see kids, babies, grandparents, and parents unite through the beautiful game, I’m sorry you missed all that joy and togetherness,” Infantino wrote.
“I regret that you were so absorbed by negativity and criticism that you failed to appreciate it all.”
“To those writing from behind their desks and screens, spreading hate and misinformation, let me remind you that while you remain on the sidelines, we at FIFA are actively working on the ground, organizing and delivering the world’s most spectacular event.”
Infantino asserted that the World Cup experienced “no violence, no incidents, 100% safety and security, only joy and happiness,” highlighting that 7 million people from over 200 countries attended matches throughout the tournament.
He expressed gratitude to the governments of host nations Canada, Mexico, and the United States, as well as to the police and volunteers, for their roles in organizing what he called “the most outstanding FIFA World Cup.”
Much of Infantino’s statement seemed to address the controversies surrounding the event.
FIFA faced backlash over U.S. travel restrictions that impacted supporters and officials from several nations, including Iran, Haiti, Senegal, and Ivory Coast. Additionally, Somali referee Omar Artan was unable to enter the U.S. due to visa denial.
– Infantino’s World Cup tour: FIFA president logged over 65,000 miles
– IOC won’t investigate Infantino over Trump interference claims
– Norway FA chief plans formal complaint, calls for Infantino to acknowledge Balogun ‘error’
Infantino defended visa practices, stating: “You highlighted the few individuals denied entry while overlooking the millions who were granted visas, showing that football truly unites the world, as demonstrated impressively this summer.”
He also appeared to address concerns regarding disciplinary decisions, including the decision to overturn Balogun’s automatic one-match suspension after he was sent off against Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Trump later revealed that he had spoken with Infantino regarding Balogun’s situation before FIFA announced the striker would be allowed to play against Belgium. While FIFA maintains that their independent disciplinary committee made the call, the decision sparked accusations of political interference from UEFA, the Belgian Football Association, and European lawmakers.
While not directly addressing the incident, Infantino commented that “‘debatable’ refereeing decisions or ‘peculiar’ disciplinary measures” are “commonplace and widely accepted” in some of the world’s top leagues.
“It’s interesting that the same nations employing these practices are the ones criticizing us,” he added.
The Norwegian Football Federation has subsequently confirmed its intention to file a formal complaint with FIFA over Trump’s involvement in the Balogun case.
Infantino urged detractors to recognize football’s power to unite people.
“For those expending their energy on hatred towards us, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect, meditate, pray, or simply watch a football match and genuinely observe the emotions on the faces of those involved,” he remarked.
“May football rise above all hate.”
Infantino’s full message
To everyone who missed our beautiful game—its emotions, celebrations, laughter, tears, deception, and joy. I regret that the matches have concluded and that you missed the joy and togetherness. I’m sorry you were so caught up in negativity that you missed it all.
To those writing from behind their screens, spreading hate and misinformation, I want to remind you that while you remain idle, we at FIFA are actively on the front lines organizing and delivering the world’s greatest show.
While you hide, we traverse the streets of Canada, Mexico, and the United States, engaging with fans and ensuring safety for all.
While you divide, we unite.
People came together as families, as fans, as one.
We experienced no violence, no incidents—only joy and happiness!
Seven million people from over 200 countries enjoyed the tournament in 16 remarkable cities and stadiums: zero incidents, zero hostility, zero violence, just joy, emotions, happiness, unity, and camaraderie. Everyone was safe and secure.
Millions worldwide watched the FIFA World Cup™ from home, sharing moments of love for the game with friends and family, filled with joy, emotions, happiness, unity, and togetherness.
Prominent global celebrities from various sectors attended, enjoying the event with fans and each other, radiating joy and happiness.
All this was made possible thanks to the tremendous contributions of the host nation governments, the incredible FIFA team working diligently for you, the host countries, their citizens, the dedicated police forces, and our amazing volunteers who came to be part of the greatest event on earth.
Every city buzzed with fans from across the globe. While they celebrated, you sowed seeds of hate.
Our world needs love, not hate; tolerance, not division; celebration, not mourning.
While you spread hate, we worked tirelessly to unite two nations at war. Iran entered the United States without incident. When the Iranian team played, all animosity transformed into a unifying song. Fans united, embodying the country and rallying around Team Melli—this is football’s power. The Iranian team received visas because football symbolizes peace and unity, transcending politics. Football is greater than hate and discrimination.
Nations facing significant health challenges gained entry for their teams and fans, instilling hope and pride back home, even if just for a moment.
You highlighted a small number of visa denials while overlooking the millions who were granted passage from every corner of the globe. Football is a unifying force, and this summer’s event showcased that power.
Or when football brought Haiti to the forefront—perhaps it’s time to set aside negativity and show respect to teams that played with passion, struggled diligently, represented their nations, traveled fans, and inspired countless children worldwide. Maybe it’s time to show some love.
Your concerns over a select few decisions made by the responsible authorities are acknowledged; however, please refer to historical records to note that such rulings are commonplace in many prestigious leagues.
Indeed, “debatable” referee calls or “odd” disciplinary actions like potentially erroneous red and yellow cards or subsequent allowances for players are standard in leading leagues worldwide.
It’s intriguing that those same nations perpetrating these practices are the critics.
This FIFA World Cup celebrated humanity’s finest moments, showcasing small nations competing with pride on the biggest stages. They displayed confidence and professionalism, bringing honor to their homelands and offering hope that anyone, regardless of background, can make a mark in the world of football. We are all equal—fans, players, and humankind.
At FIFA, we are immensely proud and emotional in witnessing these beautiful moments of love, joy, and unity.
To those committing time and energy to hate us, take a moment to reflect, meditate, pray, or watch a football match, and truly witness the emotions expressed.
Because only our beautiful game can deliver such an extraordinary experience where everyone becomes one, reconnecting as human beings.
To the writers, the critics—may you discover love and peace where others could not.
May you find peace; we at FIFA have discovered ours, and we deliver it through hosting the most outstanding FIFA World Cup. May football transcend hate.
Finally, I am incredibly proud, as FIFA President, to have contributed, even slightly, to this event. It’s a remarkable feeling!
Much love to all.