Photo: FIFA.
The 2026 World Cup is over, but Gianni Infantino still has scores to settle. The FIFA president has drawn sharp criticismto which he felt compelled to respond in a lengthy message, published on his social media accounts (with comments disabled) as well as on the organization's website. Beyond the criticism from fans and the media, the NGO FairSquare has filed a complaint to the IOC for violation of the rules of political neutrality – there will be no further action since the body considered that it was not competent to intervene in this specific case, even though Infantino is a member of the IOC.
« I regret that you missed out on all this joy and unity. I deeply regret that the blindness caused by hatred and systematic criticism We have kept you away from this immense celebration. To those who, pens, pencils, or keyboards in hand, spread resentment and false rumors from their screens, know this: while you remain on the sidelines, FIFA is on the front lines. We are organizing, we are working tirelessly, and we are delivering. the greatest show on the planet. (…) Where you divide, we unite " he wrote, visibly bitter.
« Seven million people from more than 200 countries were able to experience the competition across 16 host cities and as many fantastic stadiums: zero incidents, zero hostility, zero violence, just joy, emotions, happiness, unity and brotherhoodBillions of people around the world followed the FIFA World Cup from their homes, sharing moments of love for the game with their friends and family. Every city was black with fans from all corners of the globe. While they celebrated, you were busy sowing the seeds of hate. He says.
« While you were spreading hatred, we were working tirelessly to unite two countries at warIran entered the United States without any incident or conflict.Infantino points out, while ignoring the relocation of the Iranian base camp to Mexico, when it was planned to be in Arizona. You single out the few people who have been refused a visa, ignoring the millions of others from all corners of the globe who have been granted one. (…) To those who devote their time and energy to hating us, please, Take a moment to reflect, meditate, pray, or simply watch a football match.Really observe the faces, the looks, the emotions. Because only our beautiful sport is capable of offering such an extraordinary spectacle, where everyone becomes one and reconnects with their humanity. »
