FIFA President Gianni Infantino has hit back at critics of his leadership and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, urging them to "reflect, meditate, pray or watch a football match" instead of spreading what he described as "hate and false rumours." In a 15-slide statement posted on his personal Instagram account and shared with FIFA's more than eight million followers, Infantino defended the governing body's handling of the tournament, describing the World Cup as "the greatest event on earth." He argued that while critics focused on controversy, millions of fans around the world celebrated football's ab

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has hit back at critics of his leadership and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, urging them to "reflect, meditate, pray or watch a football match" instead of spreading what he described as "hate and false rumours." In a 15-slide statement posted on his personal Instagram account and shared with FIFA's more than eight million followers, Infantino defended the governing body's handling of the tournament, describing the World Cup as "the greatest event on earth." He argued that while critics focused on controversy, millions of fans around the world celebrated football's ability to unite people across cultures and borders. Infantino insisted that the tournament was a success, claiming it delivered "100% safety and security" and was marked by "joy, emotions, happiness, unity and togetherness." He also praised FIFA's efforts to ensure Iran's participation despite ongoing political tensions with co-host the United States, saying the organization had worked tirelessly to bring people together through football. However, his remarks have drawn further scrutiny because they contrast with complaints raised during the tournament. Iran's national team faced visa delays, travel disruptions and restrictions on its movements, while fans from several countries were affected by U.S. travel policies. FIFA has also opened investigations into post-match incidents involving Argentina and Spain, allegations of racist abuse directed at American content creator IShowSpeed, and other disciplinary matters that occurred during the competition. Infantino also dismissed criticism over controversial refereeing decisions, including FIFA's suspension of USA forward Folarin Balogun's one-match ban before the Round of 16. The decision sparked backlash from UEFA and several football associations, which questioned FIFA's consistency and independence. Infantino argued that similar disciplinary decisions are common in top domestic leagues and suggested that some of FIFA's strongest critics apply double standards. Ending his message with a call for unity, Infantino urged football supporters to focus on the positive moments created by the sport rather than division. "Our world needs love, not hate; tolerance, not division," he wrote. "To those spending their time and energy hating us, please take a moment to reflect, meditate, pray or watch a football match and truly observe the emotions. Only our beautiful game can bring people together in such an extraordinary way." The FIFA president concluded by saying he was proud to have played a role in organizing a tournament that, in his view, brought families, fans and nations together despite the controversies that surrounded it.

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