Gianni Infantino vigorously responded to criticism of the 2026 World Cup.
On 27 July 2026, Gianni Infantino, President of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), issued a statement strongly rebutting harsh criticism of the 2026 World Cup, accusing critics of being "full of hatred" and suggesting they should pray or watch a football match instead.
The statement was released after the tournament concluded, both on Infantino's personal Instagram and FIFA’s official channels. He affirmed that FIFA managed the tournament excellently and said critics "missed the chance to experience the joy and unity" generated by this World Cup.
In his statement, Infantino wrote:
"To everyone who missed experiencing our beautiful game—the emotions, celebrations, laughter, tears, disappointment, and happiness."
"To everyone who missed seeing children, babies, grandparents, and parents come together because of football, I want to say sorry that the tournament has ended, and sorry that you missed those moments of joy and unity. Sorry that you were so consumed by hatred and criticism that you missed all these beautiful things."
"To those sitting behind pen and paper or in front of screens, spreading hatred and false rumors, I want to say that while you sit behind the scenes, we at FIFA are working on the front lines, dedicating ourselves to organizing the competition, working hard, and delivering the world's greatest sporting event."
"While you hide behind screens, we walk the streets of Canada, Mexico, and the United States, talking with fans, meeting people, and ensuring everyone's safety."
"While you sow division, we build unity."
"People have gathered as families, as fans, and as human beings."
"Throughout the tournament, we found no violence, no unrest, with 100% safety—only happiness, smiles, and laughter."
"More than 7 million people from over 200 countries traveled to watch matches in 16 amazing cities and stadiums. There was no violence, no hostility, only joy, emotion, unity, and harmony. Everyone was safe and happy."
"Billions worldwide followed the World Cup from home, sharing moments of love for the game with family and friends, full of happiness, passion, and unity."
"Famous figures from music, film, entertainment, and sports traveled to attend, spending time with fans and us—all filled with smiles and happiness."
"All this was made possible by the support of the three host governments, the hard work of FIFA staff, the host countries’ citizens, dedicated police officers, and wonderful volunteers from around the world who joined this greatest sporting event on Earth."
"Every city was filled with fans from every corner of the globe celebrating, while you kept sowing seeds of hatred."
"Our world needs love, not hatred; patience, not division; celebration, not sorrow."
"While you spread hatred, we work tirelessly to connect people—even countries at war. Iran was able to travel to the United States without issue or conflict. When the Iranian national team played, opposing voices turned into cheers. Fans became part of the country, part of the team. This is football’s power."
"The Iranian national team received visas because football is peace, not politics. Football is unity, not division. Football is greater than hatred and discrimination."
"Countries facing health crises or other emergencies also received visas. Having their teams compete and fans cheering gave millions in those countries hope and at least a brief moment of joy and pride."
"You mention the few who were denied visas but overlook the millions permitted to travel from around the world because football connects the globe—and we clearly demonstrated that this summer."
"Or when football introduced the world to Haiti—a country many may never have had the chance or chosen to visit. Perhaps it’s time to put down the pen and keyboard, show respect to the players who gave their hearts on the field, to the participating countries, to fans who traveled to cheer, and to children worldwide who still dream. Maybe it’s time to give more love."
"I understand many may be dissatisfied with certain decisions by relevant authorities, but reviewing public information shows such decisions are common in the world’s top football leagues."
"In fact, disputed referee decisions or disciplinary actions—like questionable red or yellow cards, or failure to ban players in some cases—are routine and accepted in major leagues worldwide."
"It is therefore interesting that countries following these practices are the ones criticizing."
"This World Cup reflected humanity’s best side. We saw teams from small countries compete proudly on the biggest stage. They were confident, professional, and brought pride to their nations."
"Most importantly, they gave people hope that anyone, regardless of origin, can be part of the global stage and succeed in football—because we are all equal, whether fans, players, or simply human beings."
"At FIFA, we couldn’t be prouder or more grateful to witness these moments of love, joy, and unity."
"To those who spend time and energy on hatred toward us, I ask you to pause, reflect, meditate, pray, or simply watch a football match and truly look into the faces, eyes, and emotions of the people."
"Only our beautiful game can create such a magnificent event—an event that unites everyone and reconnects us as human beings."
"To everyone behind pens, paper, and screens, I hope you find love and peace where those behind you may not yet have."
"May you find peace. We at FIFA have found it, and we pass it on through organizing the greatest World Cup ever. May football overcome all hatred."
"Finally, as FIFA President, I am immensely proud to have played even a small part in creating this event. It is truly a wonderful feeling."
"With love from my heart to everyone."