A week after the 2026 World Cup final, FIFA president Gianni Infantino published an extensive message in which he defended the organization of the tournament and responded to criticism that arose during the competition. The leader stated that the organization delivered “the best show in the world” and accused some sectors of spreading “hatred and false rumors” instead of recognizing the atmosphere that, according to him, predominated in the headquarters of Canada, Mexico and the United States.

The statement, of about 900 words, was released on Sunday both on FIFA's official website and in a 15-page publication on its Instagram account. In it, Infantino maintained that the World Cup left a legacy of “joy and unity” among fans.

“I am sorry for those who were so consumed by hate and criticism that they missed everything,” the leader wrote, addressing “those who are behind their pens and papers, behind their screens spreading hate and false rumors.”

During the tournament, FIFA received questions related to entry restrictions to the United States for members of the Iranian delegation, a Somali referee and some fans; the alleged political influence of US President Donald Trump to avoid a sanction for striker Folarin Balogun after a red card; the high ticket prices and commercial breaks implemented in the middle of each half of the 104 games.

Infantino defends the organization of the tournament and responds to the controversies

Infantino said that, while fans enjoyed the World Cup, some critics chose to focus on negative aspects.

"Every city was full of fans from all over the world. While they were celebrating, you were busy sowing seeds of hate," he said. In addition, he added: "While you hide, we walk the streets of Canada, Mexico and the United States, talking to fans, interacting with people and guaranteeing everyone's safety."

The FIFA president also addressed Iran's participation in US territory, one of the most talked about issues before the start of the championship. He explained that the team entered “without incident or conflict,” despite having moved its preparation camp to Tijuana, Mexico. “While you were spreading hate, we were working tirelessly to unite two countries at war,” he said.

Regarding the immigration problems of some fans, he highlighted that the rejected cases represented a minimal part of the total applications. "You mentioned the few people who were denied visas and overlooked the millions who were approved, from all over the world. Countries facing serious health problems or other challenges received visas," he wrote.

Infantino also defended the disciplinary decision related to Folarin Balogun, noting that “subsequent decisions not to sanction players in certain situations are common.”

Finally, he closed his message with a reflection addressed to his detractors: “To those who dedicate their time and energy to hating us, please take a moment to reflect, meditate, pray or watch a soccer game and really observe the faces, the eyes and the emotions.”

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