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FIFA's Gianni Infantino slams World Cup critics for 'spreading hate'
ESPN • • general
Key Points:
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino strongly criticized World Cup detractors, accusing them of being "consumed by hate" and urging them to reflect or enjoy football instead of spreading negativity.
- Infantino defended FIFA's management of the 2026 World Cup, highlighting the event's safety, unity, and joy, with 7 million attendees from over 200 countries and no major incidents reported.
- He addressed controversies including U.S. visa restrictions affecting some teams and officials, defending the visa process by emphasizing the millions approved and the tournament's role in promoting unity beyond politics.
- Infantino also responded to criticism over disciplinary decisions, such as the suspension of Folarin Balogun's automatic ban after U.S. President Donald Trump's intervention, calling such rulings routine in major leagues and questioning the motives of critics.
- Overall, Infantino framed the World Cup as a celebration of humanity and football's power to unite people, urging critics to focus on the sport's positive impact rather than sowing division.
