Infantino Calls Out FIFA Critics: ‘Meditate, Pray or Watch Football’
FIFA president Gianni Infantino took aim at a flood of negative comments and misinformation in a 15‑slide Instagram broadcast that has been shared across the world’s football community. In the message – which has been replayed to FIFA’s 8 million followers – the president urged critics to “meditate, pray or watch a football match” rather than “spreading hate and false rumours.”
The post framed the 2026 World Cup as “the greatest event on earth,” with Infantino describing it as a celebration of humanity at its best. He highlighted the extra security measures and “100 % safety—and only joy and happiness” that he claims the tournament delivered.
Infantino also used the broadcast to counter complaints about political interference in match results. He dismissed concerns surrounding the USA forward Folarin Balogun’s suspension, which had been lifted after an intervention by U.S. President Donald Trump. He stated that such decisions are not unusual and are “routine and widely accepted in some of the biggest leagues worldwide.”
While the president prided himself on FIFA’s role in “unite the two countries at war” by welcoming Iran into the tournament, he went further to criticize the treatment of fans and staff from Iran, Haiti, Senegal and Ivory Coast who faced visa delays and ticket revocations. The president rejected the idea that any single incident could define the character of the World Cup.
Infantino’s message also touched on broader issues, such as alleged racist abuse directed at influencer IShowSpeed, and the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials inside stadiums. With a tone of admonition, he urged the international community to “show some love and respect” and “to stand together as families.”
In the final plea, Infantino thanked those who “missed the beautiful game” for their love, thanking the world for being able to “reconnect as humans.” He ended the video with a statement of pride: “I am incredibly proud, as FIFA President, to have contributed, even a little, to this show. It’s a great feeling.”
