Infantino tells Fifa critics to 'meditate, pray or watch football'
Summary
Fifa President Gianni Infantino responded to critics by urging them to focus on positive actions like meditation or watching football, while defending the organization’s handling of the 2026 World Cup. He highlighted the tournament’s safety and unity efforts, including Iran’s participation despite tensions with the United States, and addressed controversies involving visas, refereeing, and player suspensions.Key Facts
- Gianni Infantino has been Fifa president since 2016 and spoke out against criticism of his leadership and the World Cup.
- Infantino said the 2026 World Cup was safe, joyful, and united people, calling it the “greatest event on earth.”
- Iran attended the World Cup amid a conflict with the US; Infantino said Fifa worked hard to ensure Iran entered without problems.
- Iran’s team faced visa delays, lost staff visas, ticket issues, and had to move their training base due to logistical problems.
- Other countries’ fans and officials, including from Haiti, Senegal, Ivory Coast, and Somalia, also faced travel restrictions and visa denials.
- Fifa reported no violence during the tournament, though investigations are ongoing into fights after the Argentina-Spain match and racist abuse incidents.
- There was controversy over USA player Folarin Balogun’s suspension being lifted after intervention by President Donald Trump, raising questions about political influence in officiating.
- UEFA and Norway’s football authorities criticized Fifa’s handling of the suspension decision and may take formal action.
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