FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the organisation's handling of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, accusing critics of spreading hate and false rumours instead of recognising the tournament's successes.

In an open letter published today, Infantino said the competition was conducted safely and brought joy and happiness despite concerns raised before and during the tournament over ticket prices, visa restrictions, security and geopolitical tensions. He insisted FIFA worked hard to ensure the event was a success, highlighting the peaceful participation of countries facing political and security challenges, including Iran, which he said was granted entry to the United States without incident.

Infantino also dismissed criticism over visa issues, arguing that while a few individuals were denied entry, millions of fans, players and officials from around the world successfully obtained visas to attend the tournament.

The FIFA president further defended the governing body's disciplinary decisions, including the controversy surrounding the lifting of US striker Folarin Balogun's one-match suspension, saying disputed officiating and disciplinary rulings are common in major football competitions and questioning why similar decisions elsewhere attract less criticism.

— CHANNELS