GENEVA (AP) — One week after the incident world cup During the final, FIFA president Gianni Infantino attacked perceived critics for “spreading hatred and false rumors” about the tournament.
In a 900-word statement published in all newspapers, Infantino praised FIFA for “putting on the best show in the world” and said the World Cup had brought “joy and togetherness”. 15 pages of posts on his Instagram Account and beyond FIFA website late Sunday.
“I am sorry that you got so caught up in the hate and criticism that you missed it all,” the FIFA leader wrote, addressing “those who spread hatred and false rumors behind pen and paper and behind the screen.”
FIFA and Infantino faced criticism during the World Cup. Iranian team officials, Somali referee and Fans refused entry To the United States. suspected political influence by US President Donald Trump decides to release Folarin Balogun Avoid suspension due to red card. unprecedented Ticket price is high and commercialized play breaks Midway through the first half of a total of 104 games.
“Each city was filled with fans from all over the world,” Infantino wrote. “While they were celebrating, you were busy planting seeds of hate.”
“While you’re in hiding, we’re exploring cities in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, talking to fans, interacting with people, and making sure everyone’s safe.”
strict media handling
Infantino is increasingly Troubled relationship with the media This is his 11th year as president. his Press conference on the night before the tournament The speech in Mexico City was the first time international media had gathered together since March 2023.
One such press conference in Rwanda followed his remarks. Highly acclaimed re-election From FIFA member federations, Infantino was seen asking the audience: “Why are you so mean?”
Last month in Mexico City, Infantino suggested that critics should “calm down and relax.”
FIFA unites US and Iran
The key question before the tournament was whether Iran would be able to play at least three games in the United States, and the team entered the game in the second half. Switch to training camp in Tijuana, Mexico Instead of Tucson, Arizona.
“Iran entered the United States without incident or conflict,” Infantino said in a statement. “While you spread hatred, we worked tirelessly to unite our two warring countries.”
Among the fans who were denied visas to enter the United States was Michel Ngcuka Mboradinga, a prominent statue supporter from Congo who was dealing with the Ebola outbreak. he attended 1 game in Mexico.
“You said that a small number of people were being denied visas and millions of approved people from all over the world were being overlooked,” Infantino wrote. “Visas have been issued to countries facing serious health problems and other challenges.”
Infantino defends Balogun’s decision
Regarding the aftermath of the red card for U.S. forward Balogun, Infantino insisted that “subsequent decisions not to suspend players in certain situations are routine.”
FIFA did not cancel Balogun’s red card, which always occurs in domestic club competitions, but instead took the unusual step of postponing his one-match suspension for a suspended period. FIFA has not yet published the disciplinary judge’s written verdict.
“To those who spend their time and energy hating us, please take a moment to reflect, meditate, pray, watch a soccer game, and truly observe faces, eyes, and emotions,” Infantino wrote.
He concluded his statement with “much love to everyone.”
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AP Soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer and AP World Cup coverage
