27.7.2026
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has downplayed allegations of corruption, saying his critics were too “consumed by hate and criticism” and couldn’t feel the joy and happiness the 2026 World Cup brought.
Infantino who was writing on his Instagram post Monday claimed there were no security breaches and no violence even as football fans and officials were denied visas to enter America for the tournament.
“To everyone who missed our beautiful game, the emotions, the celebrations, the laughter, the crying, the deception, and the joy. 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,” read the 15-page statement by Infantino, comments were not allowed.
“While you spread hatred, we worked tirelessly to unite two countries at war. Iran entered the United States without incident or conflict.
“You mentioned the few people denied visas and overlooked the millions who were approved, from all parts of the world. Because football unites the world, and it was demonstrated impressively this summer.
“Indeed, “arguable” referees’ decisions or “strange” disciplinary rulings such as for instance potentially mistaken red or yellow cards or subsequent decisions not to ban players in certain situations are routine and widely accepted in some of the biggest leagues worldwide.
“May you find peace; we at FIFA have found ours and we deliver it, by delivering the most outstanding FIFA World Cup. May football rise above all hates,” Infantino wrote.
Infantino looks set to remain at FIFA, where he is expected to be elected unopposed once again next year. In Sunday’s message he praised his own organization for delivering despite the further criticism of hydration breaks and FIFA breaking their own rules to extend halftime in the final.
