FIFA President Gianni Infantino strongly defended the football body he heads and the upcoming World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico against critics. Mr. Infantino responded strongly to criticism targeting FIFA during the World Cup. He published a lengthy statement on his Instagram account, asserting that FIFA presented the best World Cup in history. Mr. Infantino accused critics of hiding behind pens and screens, spreading hate and false rumors, while FIFA works tirelessly on the ground to organize the tournament. He claimed that FIFA brings people together, in contrast to critics who he said divide them.
Tournament Success Claims
Gianni Infantino stated the recent World Cup, which he referred to as an unparalleled success, was held in completely safe conditions. He reported no violence or incidents, only happiness and unity throughout the event. The tournament saw an attendance of approximately seven million fans from over 200 countries across 16 host cities. Mr. Infantino thanked the governments of the United States, Mexico, and Canada for their role in the event's success, noting their cooperation as instrumental. He asserted that FIFA succeeded in facilitating the entry of delegations and teams from countries facing complex health and political conditions, ensuring broad participation. Mr. Infantino noted that critics focused on a limited number of rejected visa applications, while millions who received visas were ignored, thereby presenting a skewed picture of the overall visa process. The participation of the Iranian national team in the tournament was smooth, according to Infantino, serving as an example of successful facilitation. He reiterated his belief that the tournament was the best World Cup in history, a testament to FIFA's organizational efforts and collaborative spirit.
Defending Controversial Decisions
FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed criticisms concerning visa grants, which generated controversy before and during the tournament, particularly after some individuals were denied entry to the United States. He defended these decisions, stating that FIFA navigated complex international relations to ensure the event's security and integrity. Mr. Infantino also defended refereeing and disciplinary decisions that sparked debate, citing the case of Folarin Balogun's suspended ban being overturned. He pointed out that controversial decisions, encompassing both refereeing and disciplinary matters, are a constant occurrence in the biggest global leagues, suggesting such debates are an inherent part of competitive football at the highest level. Infantino suggested it was strange that some entities employing these methods in their local competitions were the same ones criticizing FIFA for similar issues, implying a double standard in the criticism directed at the global football body. He emphasized that FIFA strives for fairness and consistency, even when facing difficult calls.
Criticism and Backlash
The Norwegian Football Federation announced its intention to submit a formal complaint to FIFA's Ethics Committee regarding alleged political interference in the Folarin Balogun case. UEFA considered the handling of the Balogun case to have crossed red lines, describing the decision as incomprehensible and unjustifiable, indicating a significant rift between the continental body and FIFA on this matter. Meanwhile, FIFA is continuing investigations into the riots that followed the World Cup final, acknowledging the need to address post-event disturbances. Further criticism emerged from a leaked message sent by Mr. Infantino to the Argentine Football Association, in which he praised the Argentine team's professionalism. This message sparked new public and media scrutiny regarding FIFA's conduct, with some interpreting it as potentially biased or inappropriate given his role as president of the global governing body. The ongoing controversies highlight the complex challenges FIFA faces in managing global football and maintaining its reputation.