FIFA President Gianni Infantino has responded to those he perceives as critics of the recent World Cup, stating they are “spreading hate and false rumours” about the tournament. Infantino defended the event as a success that brought “happiness, unity, safety and togetherness.”
In a statement published on his Instagram account and FIFA’s website, Infantino praised the organization for “delivering the best show in the world.” He addressed his comments to “those behind their pens and papers, behind their screens spreading hate and false rumors.”
Addressing Criticisms and Incidents
Infantino suggested that critics were “so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all.” He noted that the tournament experienced “no violence, no incidents, 100% safety and security, only joy and happiness!”
During the World Cup, FIFA and Infantino faced various criticisms. These included issues regarding Iran team officials, a Somali referee, and fans being denied entry to the United States. There were also concerns about alleged political influence from U.S. President Donald Trump in a disciplinary case involving Folarin Balogun.
Other points of contention involved high ticket prices and commercialized breaks in play during all 104 games. Additionally, there was widespread debate among fans and pundits concerning officiating decisions in Argentina‘s match against Egypt.
Infantino’s comments came less than a week after FIFA announced an investigation into an on-pitch altercation between Argentina and Spain players at the conclusion of their World Cup final in New Jersey.
Visa Issues and Team Experiences
The Iran national team, which was eliminated in the group stage, encountered a challenging experience. They were required to relocate their training camp from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico, due to conflict in the Middle East. The team also faced logistical difficulties travelling between the two countries for their three group matches.
Infantino’s letter also followed scrutiny over FIFA’s handling of Folarin Balogun’s disciplinary case. A decision was made to suspend the automatic one-match ban for the US striker after he received a red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, reportedly following an intervention by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Infantino argued that many of the refereeing and disciplinary decisions criticized during the tournament are common in various competitions globally. He stated, “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.” He also found it “curious that the same countries employing these practices are the ones criticising.”
He highlighted the participation of countries facing political tensions, domestic crises, and health challenges as evidence of football’s ability to unite. While Iran’s involvement occurred amidst conflict with the US, issues surrounding Haiti’s domestic crisis and the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo also drew attention to visa and travel restrictions.
The Somali World Cup referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan was reportedly denied entry to the US despite possessing a valid visa. Infantino countered this by saying, “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 impressively demonstrated this summer.”
He further noted that Iran entered the United States without incident, stating, “The Iranian team received visas to enter because football is about peace. It’s not about politics.” Infantino also mentioned, “Countries facing serious health issues or other challenges were granted visas.”
Infantino’s remarks contrasted with those of Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei, who described Team Melli as the “most oppressed” team at the World Cup. Infantino concluded by suggesting that when football brings countries like Haiti to global attention, it might be time for critics to show respect to the participating teams.
Source: nanaimonewsnow.com
Chloe Tremblay is the Sports Reporter at CasinoNews, covering basketball, tennis and athletics with nine years of reporting experience. She reported on the Raptors' rise and two Olympic cycles. She holds a degree in Journalism from Concordia University. Based in Montreal, she plays recreational basketball and follows track athletics. “The best stories come from the athletes everyone overlooks.”
