FIFA President Gianni Infantino has responded to criticism surrounding the 2026 World Cup, defending the tournament's organisation and accusing critics of spreading hate and fake news. Despite the controversy over ticket prices, logistical problems and the decision to overturn Folarin Balogun's suspension, Infantino called the World Cup a great success and stressed that FIFA will continue to expand international competitions.
In a post on Instagram, the FIFA chief said many critics missed the opportunity to see the positive side of the tournament. "I feel sorry for those who were so consumed by hatred and criticism that they missed the joy and unity that football brought," he wrote.
Infantino also had a message for journalists and commentators who, he said, have been spreading unfounded claims. He said that while critics write from behind the scenes, FIFA is on the ground organizing the world's greatest sporting spectacle.
The FIFA President also commented on the debates over the Folarin Balogun case, stressing that such disciplinary decisions are common in football and that public documents show that similar cases occur regularly even in the biggest leagues.
Finally, Infantino also responded to criticism about fan visas, emphasizing that, although there were cases of refusals, millions of fans from around the world managed to travel and follow World Cup matches closely.
