Zurich: FIFA President Gianni Infantino launched a scathing attack on critics of the World Cup, accusing them of “spreading hatred and false rumors” while asserting that the tournament brought “joy and happiness” to the world.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Infantino addressed his detractors in an open letter published on Monday, urging them to “take a moment to reflect, contemplate, and pray” following a tournament mired in controversies ranging from ticket prices to visa issues. He expressed regret that critics were so consumed by negativity that they failed to see the positive aspects of the event.
Infantino emphasized FIFA’s commitment to delivering a successful World Cup, stating, “To those sitting behind their pens and papers, behind their screens, spreading hatred and false rumors, I say that while you sat there, we at FIFA were on the front lines, organizing, working hard, and putting on the best show in the world.” He proudly noted the absence of violence or incidents, highlighting the tournament’s safety and security.
The World Cup, held across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, faced numerous challenges, including high prices, geopolitical tensions, and the looming threat of extreme summer heat waves. Iran’s participation, amidst its conflict with the United States, alongside concerns over Haiti’s internal crisis and the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, intensified scrutiny over visa and travel restrictions.
Somali referee Omar Artan became a prominent casualty of these restrictions, being denied entry to the United States. Infantino defended FIFA’s efforts, stating, “While you were spreading hatred, we were working tirelessly to unite two countries at war. Iran entered the United States without incident or conflict, and the Iranian team was granted visas because football is about peace, not politics.” He further pointed out that visas were granted to nations facing serious challenges, with the focus wrongly placed on a few visa refusals rather than the millions issued globally.
Addressing criticisms of refereeing during the World Cup, Infantino disclosed that US President Donald Trump personally requested a review of the one-match suspension imposed on US striker Folarin Balogun, which was subsequently lifted, allowing him to play against Belgium in the round of 16. Infantino defended the decision, stating that controversial rulings are not uncommon in major tournaments and are often accepted as part of the sport.
Infantino concluded by expressing surprise that countries engaged in controversial practices were among those criticizing FIFA’s decisions, urging critics to examine public records and understand the context of such rulings in the world of football.