FIFA President Gianni Infantino has responded to criticism surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup, urging his detractors to “reflect, meditate or pray” in a lengthy open letter defending the tournament and its organisation.
Infantino was a constant presence throughout the competition, attending 44 matches across 39 days as the World Cup was hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. However, despite his involvement, several controversial issues dominated headlines during the tournament.
Among the major talking points were visa problems affecting some participants, including Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir, who was reportedly denied entry to the United States, and difficulties faced by Iran’s delegation. The tournament also attracted attention after former US President Donald Trump became involved in the disciplinary case surrounding American striker Folarin Balogun’s red-card suspension.
Other issues included concerns over ticket prices, the introduction of mandatory hydration breaks during matches, and political gestures such as Argentina’s celebration involving a banner referencing the Falkland Islands. The World Cup final itself was also overshadowed by heated scenes following Spain’s victory over Argentina.
Despite these controversies, Infantino described the tournament as “the best show in the world” and criticised those who focused on negative aspects rather than the moments of celebration and unity created by football.
In an 886-word statement published on his personal Instagram account and FIFA’s official platforms, the FIFA president claimed that the competition was defined by happiness, togetherness and a lack of major incidents.
Infantino also addressed concerns regarding visa restrictions, stating that millions of fans and officials were granted entry while highlighting that some challenges were unavoidable. He defended FIFA’s handling of the Balogun disciplinary case, arguing that overturned suspensions and controversial refereeing decisions are common occurrences in football.
The FIFA president concluded his message by calling for football to rise above criticism and negativity, insisting that the 2026 World Cup demonstrated the sport’s ability to unite people around the world.
However, critics argue that Infantino’s comments failed to fully acknowledge the concerns raised during the tournament, with human rights groups and football observers continuing to question whether the event truly delivered on FIFA’s promise of being the most inclusive World Cup in history.
