Gianni Infantino, president of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), has directly targeted critics of the 2026 North American World Cup, stating, "I feel sorry for you, as you have missed everything, consumed by hatred and criticism."

Infantino posted a lengthy message through FIFA's and his own social media channels, launching a direct rebuttal against various controversies that arose during the World Cup.

Infantino's long post is interpreted as a response to the growing public criticism surrounding controversies during the World Cup, including U.S. entry restrictions and visa issuance issues, as well as the suspension of a match ban for U.S. national team forward Folarin Balogun following the intervention of U.S. President Donald Trump.

Infantino began by stating, "To all those who missed our beautiful game, the emotions, the celebration, the smiles, the tears, the disappointment, and the joy," emphasizing, "I feel sorry for you, as you are so consumed by hatred and criticism that you missed it all."

He continued, "To those who sit behind pens, papers, and screens spreading hatred and fake rumors," arguing, "While you sit behind the scenes, FIFA is on the front lines organizing, working hard, and delivering the greatest show on Earth."

Regarding the U.S. visa processing issues, he argued, "Only a small number of people whose visas were denied are being mentioned, while the millions approved worldwide are being overlooked." On the suspension of Balogun's ban, he retorted, "Controversial referee decisions or unusual disciplinary rulings are routine and widely accepted in major leagues around the world," adding, "It is interesting that the very countries utilizing these practices are the ones leveling criticisms."

Infantino stated, "Those who spend their time and energy sending us hatred, please take a moment to reflect, meditate, pray, or watch a football match and genuinely observe the faces, eyes, and emotions," expressing his hope that "football will stand tall above all hatred."

(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)