Infantino says critics ‘missed it all’ in open letter defending World Cup
Gianni Infantino has accused opponents of spreading hate and false narratives about the recent World Cup, issuing an open letter on Monday, 27 July 2026, to rebut their claims. He described the tournament as a success that showcased unity, safety and inclusion and insisted detractors ignored the positive experience of fans.
The Fifa president, Gianni Infantino, argued that millions of supporters around the world enjoyed joy and togetherness while watching the competition, which was won by Spain and staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The 56-year-old used the letter to reject what he characterised as misleading coverage, and he again defended the handling of the Balogun affair and the treatment of Iran. Infantino framed the event as one that delivered on promises of security and spectacle despite critical commentary.
“You were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all,” said the 56-year-old.
“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.”
In the letter Infantino stressed that organisers and local authorities worked to ensure smooth operations throughout the tournament’s three-host format. He emphasised the logistical and security achievements that, he said, allowed fans to gather safely in host cities across North America. The president’s comments were positioned as a direct response to critics who, he asserted, overlooked those positive outcomes.
The open letter reiterated Fifa’s stance on controversial episodes that attracted attention during and after the tournament, including the Balogun affair and matters involving Iran, with Infantino defending the organisation’s approach in both instances. He maintained that the overall picture of the World Cup was one of inclusion and celebration, and that negative narratives had been amplified by those he identified as critics. The communication sought to reframe public perception by highlighting the event’s reported successes.
Infantino’s statement on Monday aimed to close the debate by underlining what he described as indisputable facts about the event’s safety and atmosphere. By defending the competition’s record and challenging its detractors, he presented Fifa’s version of events while reiterating confidence in the tournament’s delivery and legacy.