Infantino Accuses World Cup Critics Of Spreading ‘Hate And False Rumours’

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the organisation against criticism surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the tournament was a success and accusing detractors of spreading “hate and false rumours” instead of acknowledging its achievements.

Infantino made the remarks in an open letter published on Monday and shared on his Instagram page and FIFA’s official platforms, where he dismissed criticism over issues ranging from ticket prices and visa restrictions to safety and officiating.

He said critics should “take a moment to reflect, meditate, pray,” arguing they had focused on negativity rather than the success of the competition.

“Sorry that you were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all,” Infantino wrote.

“To those behind their pens and papers, behind their screens, spreading hate and false rumours, I want to say that while you are sitting behind, we at FIFA are on the front lines organising, working hard, and delivering the best show in the world.

“We experienced no violence, no incidents, 100% safety and security, only joy and happiness!”

The tournament, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States, faced intense scrutiny before and during the competition over soaring ticket prices, visa concerns, geopolitical tensions and fears that extreme summer temperatures could affect players and supporters.

Iran’s participation amid tensions with the United States, Haiti’s political crisis and the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo also fuelled debate over travel restrictions and visa approvals.

Among the most notable cases was Somali referee Omar Artan, who was denied entry into the United States under President Donald Trump’s immigration policy.

Despite the concerns, Infantino maintained that FIFA successfully navigated the challenges.

“While you spread hatred, we worked tirelessly to unite two countries at war. Iran entered the United States without incident or conflict,” he said.

“The Iranian team received visas to enter because football is about peace. It’s not about politics.”

He added that countries facing health emergencies and other challenges were also granted entry.

“You mentioned the few people denied visas and overlooked the millions who were approved, from all parts of the world,” he said.

Infantino’s comments differed sharply from those of Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei, who described his team as the “most oppressed” side at the World Cup, while striker Mehdi Taremi labelled the team’s treatment during the tournament “a disaster.”

The FIFA president also defended the body’s disciplinary processes after controversy surrounding United States forward Folarin Balogun’s one-match suspension.

Reports claimed President Trump personally asked Infantino to review the ban, which was subsequently lifted, allowing Balogun to feature against Belgium in the round of 16.

The decision drew criticism from UEFA, which described the move as “unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable” and said it had “crossed a red line.”

Responding to the backlash, Infantino argued that controversial refereeing and disciplinary decisions are commonplace in elite football competitions.

“Your dissatisfaction with a few decisions made by the competent authorities is understandable, but please refer to public records: such decisions are common in some of the most important leagues,” he said.

“‘Arguable’ referees’ decisions or ‘strange’ disciplinary rulings, including potentially mistaken red or yellow cards or later decisions not to ban players, are routine and widely accepted in some of the biggest leagues worldwide.

“It’s curious that the same countries employing these practices are the ones criticising.”

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