Gianni Infantino slams World Cup critics for spreading hate

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has launched a scathing defense of the 2026 World Cup, accusing critics of “spreading hate” and dismissing controversies as “false rumours” in a social media essay that has drawn comparisons to Donald Trump’s rhetoric. The statement, published on Instagram, came after a tournament marked by visa disputes, controversial refereeing decisions, and allegations of political interference, including a high-profile intervention by former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Infantino framed the World Cup as an unprecedented success, claiming “no violence, no incidents, 100% safety and security, only joy and happiness” and asserting that 7 million people from over 200 countries attended matches across 16 cities in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. He accused critics of “missing all that joy and togetherness” and urged them to “meditate, pray or watch football” instead of “spreading hate.”

The statement addressed several controversies, including the suspended red-card ban of U.S. striker Folarin Balogun, which followed a call from Trump to FIFA. Infantino defended the decision, stating that “arguable” referee calls and “strange” disciplinary rulings were “routine” in major leagues and that critics were “curious” for condemning them. He also highlighted the tournament’s “unification of two countries at war,” citing Iran’s participation despite visa restrictions that barred parts of its coaching staff and forced a last-minute relocation of training facilities.

However, reports contradicted Infantino’s claims of seamless organization. mirror.co.uk noted that four people died during World Cup celebrations in Mexico City, while Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the U.S. on the eve of the tournament. Iran’s team faced significant hurdles, with only four of 15 staff members eventually granted visas. Infantino acknowledged “a few people denied visas” but emphasized that “millions were approved,” a stance criticized as downplaying systemic issues.

The FIFA president also faced scrutiny for his handling of visa policies, which barred supporters and officials from nations including Haiti, Senegal, and Ivory Coast. jang.com.pk reported that Infantino thanked the U.S., Canada, and Mexico for their “efforts,” while critics argued the host nations’ restrictions undermined the tournament’s spirit of inclusivity. The mirror.co.uk article further questioned Infantino’s comparison to Trump, noting his “rambling” rhetoric and alleged delusion, with one writer suggesting he had “gone full Donald Trump.”

Infantino’s message, described as an “extraordinary essay” by aol.com, also targeted journalists, accusing them of “spreading hate and false rumours” while FIFA “delivered the best show in the world.” He closed by urging critics to “find love and peace where the people behind you couldn’t,” a statement that drew sharp rebukes from outlets highlighting the tournament’s unresolved controversies.

The World Cup’s legacy remains contentious. While Infantino celebrated its “outstanding” execution, incidents such as the Balogun ban, visa disputes, and post-match violence in Mexico City underscored deepening tensions. The FIFA president’s response, blending defiance with sweeping generalizations, has intensified debates over the organization’s transparency and accountability. As the dust settles, the divide between Infantino’s vision of unity and the realities of a tournament plagued by political and logistical challenges remains stark.