FIFA president Gianni Infantino slammed critics and urged them to “get over hatred”. The 56-year-old has been regularly criticized for several issues that occurred at the World Cup, and he has since written a staggering 886-word open letter in response.
Infantino appeared to take part in almost every match of the tournament, with cameras always watching him. Apart from his appearance in the game, Infantino also made headlines, but for all the wrong reasons, with multiple issues emerging at the World Cup.
These began before the tournament even began, with Somali referee Omar Altan being denied a visa, while Iran faced serious problems entering the United States. Arguably the biggest controversy was the overturning of Folarin Balogun’s red card following intervention from US President Donald Trump.
The tournament, which was held in the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, was a hot topic of discussion over the dramatic increase in ticket prices and the introduction of controversial hydration breaks in each first half.
In the aftermath of Spain’s victory, even the World Cup final was tainted by the actions of some Argentine players and coaches. Mr. Infantino attended the presidential election in New Jersey a week ago with Mr. Trump, but appears to have erased the unpleasant scene from his memory.
In an 886-word open letter posted on his Instagram account and FIFA’s website, Infantino addressed those who had “missed watching children, babies, grandparents and parents come together for a beautiful game” at “The Greatest Show in the World” and who were “overwhelmed by the hatred and criticism.”
“There were zero incidents, zero hostility, zero violence, just joy, emotion, happiness, unity, togetherness,” he said. “Virtually all the world’s biggest names in music, film, entertainment and sports were in attendance. Iran entered the United States without incident or conflict,” adding that “visas were issued to countries facing serious health and other challenges.”
“You said that a small number of people were being refused visas and that millions of people from all over the world who were approved were being overlooked. Because football is what unites the world and that was impressively demonstrated this summer,” he added.
Infantino later appeared to defend Balogun’s red card being overturned, saying it is common practice in other leagues.
“While it is understandable to be dissatisfied with some of the decisions made by the competent authorities, please refer to the public record. Such decisions are common in some of the most important leagues,” he said.
“Indeed, ‘controversial’ refereeing decisions and ‘bizarre’ disciplinary actions, such as the possible mistake of giving a red or yellow card, or the subsequent decision not to ban a player in certain circumstances, are commonplace and widely accepted in some of the world’s major leagues. It is strange that the same countries that adopt these practices are criticizing them.”
He concluded with a sharp message to his critics. “May you find the love and peace in pen and paper and in every screen that those behind you couldn’t find. May you find peace. We at FIFA have found our love and peace, and we will deliver it by delivering the greatest FIFA World Cup ever. May football rise above all hate.”
