Infantino also addressed growing criticism of officiating standards, focusing on concerns about political interference after U.S. President Donald Trump’s intervention allowed FIFA to lift the one‑match ban on USA forward Folarin Balogun, permitting him to participate in the last‑16 tie.
Of the 191 red cards issued in the men’s World Cup to date, only one player has previously avoided a suspension.
UEFA described the decision as having “crossed a red line”, calling it “unprecedented, incomprehensible and unjustifiable”. The Norwegian Football Federation is reportedly preparing to file a formal complaint with FIFA’s ethics committee.
Infantino countered by asserting that such rulings are not unprecedented, characterising them as “routine and widely accepted in some of the world’s biggest leagues”.
He noted, “It is intriguing that the very nations employing these practices are the ones voicing the criticism.”
The International Olympic Committee has said it will not investigate Infantino for potential breaches of political neutrality, stating that the complaint lodged χρόκ by human rights campaign group FairSquare falls outside its ethics commission’s jurisdiction.
Infantino urged critics to “show love” and “respect” for a tournament that brings people together as families and fans.
In a statement, Infantino wrote: “To everyone who missed our beautiful game, the emotions, celebrations, laughter, crying, deception, and joy. We lament that some were so consumed by hate and criticism that they missed it all.”
He continued: “While the world celebrated, you planted seeds of hate. Our world needs love, not hate; tolerance, not division; celebration, not mourning.”
He added: “To those who invest their time and energy in hatred, please take a moment to reflect—meditate, pray, or simply watch a football match and observe the faces, eyes, emotions.”
He said that only football can deliver such an extraordinary spectacle where everyone becomes one and reconnects as humans.
Infantino concluded by expressing pride in contributing, even modestly, to this showcase and described it as a great feeling.
