Gianni Infantino Cries Wolf, Lambasts Critics For 'Hate And Flase Rumours'
Gianni Infantino Cries Wolf, Lambasts Critics For 'Hate And Flase Rumours' Published By, Last Updated: July 27, 2026, 16:26 IST Gianni Infantino has defended FIFA's
Gianni Infantino Cries Wolf, Lambasts Critics For 'Hate And Flase Rumours' Published By, Last Updated: July 27, 2026, 16:26 IST Gianni Infantino has defended FIFA's handling of the 2026 World Cup, insisting critics ignored the tournament's success while rejecting claims over safety and governance. Rapid Read Infantino (R) with Donald Trump (L) (AP) Seems like Gianni Infantino’s feelings got hurt from all the oh-so-rude critics. The FIFA president has launched a rather flimsy defence of the FIFA World Cup 2026, accusing critics of focusing on “hate and false rumours" instead of recognising what he described as a successful and unifying tournament. In an open letter published on Monday, Infantino argued that the competition — hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico and won by Spain — delivered on its promise of bringing people together, despite attracting criticism on several fronts during and after the event. ‘You Missed It All’ Addressing journalists and commentators who questioned aspects of the tournament, Infantino claimed the broader picture had been overlooked. “You were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all." The FIFA chief praised the work of tournament organisers, insisting the World Cup was conducted safely and without major incidents.
“To those behind their pens and papers, behind their screens spreading hate and false rumours, I want to say that while you are sitting behind, we at FIFA are on the front lines organising, working hard, and delivering the best show in the world. We experienced no violence, no incidents, 100% safety and security, only joy and happiness." Infantino’s Meek Reply The tournament was scrutinised over a range of issues, including visa restrictions affecting supporters and officials from several countries, travel complications involving teams from conflict-affected regions, and FIFA’s decision to suspend an automatic one-match ban on United States striker Folarin Balogun after intervention from US President Donald Trump. Officiating also came under the spotlight, particularly after Argentina’s Round of 32 victory over Egypt, with Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan among those critical of refereeing decisions. Infantino defended FIFA’s disciplinary approach, arguing similar practices are common elsewhere. “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. It’s curious that the same countries employing these practices are the ones criticising." He also rejected suggestions that geopolitical tensions prevented teams from participating fairly.
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