Infantino targets critics he says spread ‘hate and false rumours’ about World Cup
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has publicly criticized media and detractors for spreading 'hate and false rumors' regarding the recent World Cup. He defended the tournament's success while facing ongoing scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers and media regarding organizational issues.
Why it matters
The conflict underscores the growing tension between FIFA leadership and international media/government oversight regarding the governance and commercialization of global sports events.
GENEVA (AP) — One week after the World Cup final, FIFA President Gianni Infantino attacked perceived critics for “spreading hate and false rumors” about the tournament. Infantino praised FIFA for “delivering the best show in the world” and spoke of the World Cup bringing “joy and togetherness,” in a 900-word statement published across a 15-page post on his Instagram account and on FIFA’s website late Sunday. “Sorry that you were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all,” the FIFA leader wrote, addressing his comments to “those behind their pens and papers, behind their screens spreading hate and false rumors.” FIFA and Infantino faced criticism during the World Cup for Iran team officials, a Somali referee and fans being denied entry to the United States; alleged political influence by U.S.
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