Due to many controversies surrounding the World Cup, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has been criticized. On July 27th, he posted a long article of 15 pages on the social media platform Instagram, defending the organization of this World Cup and attacking those who criticized it, calling them 'devoured by hatred'.
"To all who missed our beautiful soccer match, missing the passion, celebrations, laughter, tears, disappointment and joy. To all who missed seeing children, infants, grandparents and parents gather due to this beautiful sport. I say: Sorry, the game is over; sorry you missed all the merriment and reunions; sorry you were swallowed by hate and criticism that you missed everything." - Inventi
Infantino Instagram screenshot
He said, "To those who hide behind paper and pen, behind screens, spreading hatred and false rumors, I would like to say that when you sit in the background, we at FIFA are at the front line, organizing events, working hard, and presenting the most exciting shows in the world."
Every city was packed with fans from all over the world, Yin Fan Tian Nuo wrote, “When they celebrate, you’re busy scattering seeds of hatred.”
This FIFA president said that this World Cup ‘has no violence, no accidents, 100% safety, only happiness and joy’.
Infantino also said that the World Cup "united" Iran and the United States. "When you spread hatred, we work hard to unite two warring nations. There were no accidents or conflicts when the Iranian team entered the United States," he wrote.
You only mentioned a few people who were denied entry visas, but ignored the millions of people who have been approved (entered the United States) from all over the world.” As Vincenzo said.
Regarding the delay in implementing the red card suspension imposed on U.S. team striker Balotelli, U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that he had discussed this issue with Infantino, expressing his stance of demanding a review of the penalty. Although FIFA insisted that the decision to postpone the suspension was made by its independent disciplinary committee, this ruling has led to accusations of political interference from UEFA, Belgian football authorities, and European parliamentarians.
Infantino did not specifically mention any cases in his lengthy statement. He said, "Controversial decisions or 'strange' disciplinary rulings, such as misjudging red or yellow cards, or decisions that do not result in suspensions for players under certain circumstances, are common and accepted in some of the world's largest leagues. What is puzzling is that the same practices are adopted by countries that also make critical comments."
For those who waste their time and energy on hatred towards us, please take a moment to reflect, meditate, pray, or watch a soccer game. Truly observe people's expressions, eyes, and emotions. Invati wrote: "May football transcend all hatred."
Due to the postponed execution of a red card penalty against an American team player, as well as a series of controversial actions, Conte is facing complaints from several organizations. At the same time, his close relationship with Trump has also led to widespread criticism.
Infantino's current term as FIFA president will expire in 2027, and he has confirmed that he will continue to participate in the next presidential election after this term ends.
