FIFA’s Infantino issues letter, accuses World Cup critics of spreading hate

FIFA faced criticism over several issues during the tournament, including a debate over US visa restrictions for teams.International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) President Gianni Infantino has hit back at critics of the 2026 World Cup, accusing them of spreading hate and false narratives while defending the tournament as a success that celebrated ⁠”happiness, unity, safety and togetherness”.In an open letter published on Instagram on Monday, Infantino, 56, said detractors had overlooked the joy and togetherness experienced by millions of fans around the world who witnessed the tournament, won by Spain and staged across ⁠the United States, Canada and Mexico.Recommended Stories list of 4 itemslist 1 of 4Report: Real Madrid agree terms with RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomandelist 2 of 4Pogacar’s Tour de France reign continues with record-equalling fifth titlelist 3 of 4World’s oldest professional footballer scores first goal in yearslist 4 of 4Looking to beat post-World Cup football blues? Here’s how to do itend of list“You were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all,” he said.“To those behind their pens and papers, behind their screens spreading hate and false rumours, I want to say that while you are sitting behind, we at FIFA are on the front lines organising, working hard, and delivering the best show in ‌the world.“We experienced no violence, no incidents, 100% safety and security, only joy and happiness!”Infantino’s comments came less than a week after FIFA said it was investigating an on-pitch altercation between Argentina and Spain players at the end of their World Cup final in New Jersey.Spain players celebrate winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup [Dan Mullan/Getty Images/AFP]FIFA faced criticism over a series of issues during the tournament, including debate over US visa restrictions affecting supporters and officials from several countries and concerns involving teams from conflict-hit regions, such as Iran.Iran, who were knocked out in the group stage, had a turbulent experience, forced to move their training camp base from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico due to the war in the Middle East. They also faced logistical issues travelling back and forth to the United States for their three ⁠group matches.