In brief
In a 15‑slide Instagram post shared on FIFA’s 8 million‑strong feed, Infantino demanded critics to meditate, pray or watch football to escape “hate” and “false rumours”. He praised the 2026 World Cup for its “100% safety,” “joy and happiness”, and highlighted Iran’s smooth participation amid geopolitical tensions. The president faced backlash over controversies like visa delays for Iranian staff, political interference in player bans, and accusations of racism toward social‑media influencer IShowSpeed. Infantino dismissed critics as “haters” and called for love and respect for the “beautiful game”. His sharp rebuttal sparked debate on whether FIFA’s defiance reinforces a siege mentality or demonstrates strong leadership.
Infantino hits back at critics. In a 15‑slide Instagram post—reposted to FIFA’s 8 million‑strong feed—he told critics to “meditate, pray or watch a football match” rather than spread hate and false rumours about the governing body and the World Cup.
He argued that the 2026 tournament had 100% safety and security, and framed Iran’s participation—despite tensions with the US—as a success, claiming FIFA “worked tirelessly to unite two countries at war.”
Infantino dismissed concerns about visa delays for Iranian staff, political interference in player bans, the alleged harassment of American influencer IShowSpeed, and the investigations into match‑day incidents. He blamed critics for “planting seeds of hate” and urged them to “watch a football match” to experience unity and joy.
He concluded, “To those spending their time and energy hating us, please take a moment to reflect, meditate, pray or watch a football match and truly observe the faces, the eyes, the emotions.”
The outburst sparks a debate over whether FIFA’s defensive posture is defensive or bold. Critics argue that such a response may close the door to legitimate scrutiny of the World Cup’s shortcomings, while supporters see it as an affirmation of FIFA’s efforts to celebrate unity worldwide.
