FIFA president Gianni Infantino blasts World Cup critics in 15-page note

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has hit back at critics following the 2026 World Cup, urging them to "pray or watch football" instead of spreading negativity. The FIFA chief defended the tournament's legacy despite a series of controversies on and off the pitch.FIFA president Gianni Infantino (Reuters Photo)FIFA president Gianni Infantino has hit back at critics in the aftermath of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, urging them to "meditate, pray or watch a football match" instead of "spending time hating" the governing body. In a lengthy social media statement, Infantino defended FIFA's handling of the tournament and insisted the World Cup should be remembered for bringing people together rather than the controversies surrounding it.The FIFA chief, who did not address the media during or after the tournament, said the competition showcased "humanity at its best" and accused sections of the media and critics of overlooking the joy experienced by billions of football fans across the globe."If you have some extra time, instead of spending it hating, meditate, pray, smile, spend it with your loved ones, or watch a football match.""To all of you who missed watching kids, babies, grandparents, and parents come together for the beautiful game, I say sorry that the matches are now over and sorry that you missed all that joy and togetherness." "Sorry that you were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all."Infantino also defended FIFA's work during the tournament, saying the organisation remained focused on delivering the biggest sporting spectacle in the world despite constant scrutiny.INFANTINO DEFENDS FIFA WORLD CUP 2026 Infantino described the World Cup as a celebration of football that attracted billions of viewers worldwide and praised the efforts of volunteers, host nations and security personnel. He claimed the tournament passed off safely and argued that isolated refereeing and disciplinary controversies should not overshadow the success of the event.He also rejected criticism surrounding FIFA's disciplinary decisions, saying similar calls are routinely accepted in domestic leagues across the world.WORLD CUP FACED SEVERAL CONTROVERSIESDespite Infantino's glowing assessment, the tournament was overshadowed by several off-field issues. Fans and officials from countries including Iran, Senegal, Haiti and Ivory Coast faced visa restrictions because of US travel policies, while FIFA also came under investigation over ticket pricing.The governing body was further criticised after United States forward Folarin Balogun's suspension was overturned before the Round of 16, prompting allegations of political interference after US President Donald Trump revealed he had spoken to Infantino about the case. UEFA, the Belgian football federation and several European lawmakers questioned the decision, while UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin boycotted the World Cup final in protest over FIFA's handling of several issues.Infantino's post also omitted references to some of the tournament's biggest controversies, including the deaths of four fans during World Cup celebrations in Mexico City and ongoing legal challenges related to Iranian supporters. Even so, the FIFA president maintained that the competition had fulfilled its primary objective of uniting people through football and should be remembered for its global impact rather than the criticism that followed.- EndsPublished By: Debodinna ChakrabortyPublished On: Jul 27, 2026 10:42 IST