World Cup 2026: Gianni Infantino slams critics who were 'spreading hate' during event

The 2026 World Cup is over, and instead of focusing on the joys of the event, FIFA President Gianni Infantino took a moment to call out its critics in one of his first comments since the final. In a lengthy social-media post, Infantino ripped critics who he accused of “ spreading hate ” during the 2026 World Cup. Infantino’s statement immediately begins with him calling out those who “missed our beautiful game.” “To all of you who missed watching kids, babies, grandparents, and parents come together for the beautiful game, I say sorry that the matches are now over and sorry that you missed all that joy and togetherness. “Sorry that you were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all.” From there, Infantino appeared to take a shot at journalists covering the 2026 World Cup: “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. “While you hide, we are exploring the streets of Canada, Mexico, and the United States, talking with fans, engaging with people, and ensuring everyone’s safety. “While you divide, we unite.” Infantino then went on to thank the host countries for providing a welcoming atmosphere during games before once again condemning critics of the event. “While they celebrated, you were busy planting seeds of hate. “Our world needs love, not hate; tolerance, not division; celebration, not mourning. “While you spread hatred, we worked tirelessly to unite two countries at war. “Iran entered the United States without incident or conflict.” He later continued: “It’s not about politics. “Football is about unity, not division. Football is bigger than hate and discrimination.” In the post, Infantino also addressed “‘arguable’ referees’ decisions.” “Indeed, ‘arguable’ referees’ decisions or ‘strange’ disciplinary rulings such as for instance potentially mistaken red or yellow cards or subsequent decisions not to ban players in certain situations are routine and widely accepted in some of the biggest leagues worldwide. “It’s curious that the same countries employing these practices are the onces criticising.” He then ended the statement with, “Much love to all.” Infantino’s post is … a curious way to address what, on many levels, was a successful World Cup. While the event was subject to plenty of criticism, some due to President Donald Trump’s involvement and the United States’ immigration policies , some due to potential mishandling of punishments handed out during games, particularly one involving USMNT striker Folarin Balogun, there was a lot to celebrate from the actual event. Videos of opposing fans being embraced and celebrated by United States citizens were among the best part of the 2026 World Cup. When the games actually began, a record number of fans from the U.S. tuned in . That should have given Infantino plenty to celebrate. Instead, he — for whatever reason — decided to focus on all the potential negatives surrounding the event.