Infantino Calls Out FIFA Critics: Meditate, Pray or Watch Football

FIFA president Gianni Infantino delivered a forceful Instagram rebuttal to critics who have been lambasting the organisation’s management of the 2026 World Cup. In a 15‑slide post that was reposted on the governing body’s eight‑million‑strong feed, Infantino urged detractors to “meditate, pray or watch a football match,” instead of “spreading hate and false rumours” about FIFA and the tournament.

The message was aimed at “those behind their pens and papers, behind their screens,” while the president vowed that the world’s biggest sporting event was executed with “100% safety and security” and, more importantly, delivered only joy, happiness and unity. He proudly highlighted Iran’s participation as an example of FIFA’s commitment to bringing together “two countries at war” and said the team entered the United States without incident, underscoring the event’s success in overcoming logistical and political challenges.

Infantino also weighed in on controversy surrounding officiating. In one of the tournament’s rare suspensions, the United States forward Folarin Balogun was reinstated for the last‑16 match after a Haitian–U.S. diplomatic intervention involving then-President Donald Trump. While UEFA deemed the decision “unprecedented” and “unjustifiable,” Infantino dismissed such criticism, claiming similar rulings are routine in premier leagues. He called the complaint “a cross‑tinged line,” and had the International Olympic Committee confirm that FairSquare’s complaint would not lead to an investigation.

The president’s remarks also touched on safety concerns that have plagued the event’s lead‑up. While Iranian staff faced visa delays, other teams—especially from Haiti, Senegal and Ivory Coast—suffered travel bans, and even Somali referee Omar Artan was denied U.S. entry despite a diplomatic passport. Infantino’s response highlighted that millions of fans were granted visas and that football’s unifying power stood out in 2026.

In a final plea to fans and critics alike, Infantino urged that those who missed “the beautiful game… the laughter, the crying, the deception and the joy” focus instead on unity and respect. He wrapped his statement with an image of the winning World Cup trophy, noting that “our beautiful game can deliver an extraordinary show where everyone becomes one.”