Infantino celebrates World Cup at UN, FIFA highlights global unity and tournament attendance records

FIFA President Gianni Infantino declared the World Cup a resounding success at the United Nations on Friday, asserting that the tournament fulfilled its mission to unite people from all corners of the globe.

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a magical object with the power to unite the world

Speaking at a UN session focused on football's role as a catalyst for youth mental health, Infantino held up an official match ball. He described it as a "magical object with the power to unite the world." Infantino acknowledged the prevalent narrative of a divided and aggressive world, but stressed that the World Cup has demonstrated that "many more things unite us than divide us."

This year's tournament was the largest in history, featuring 48 teams and matches across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. FIFA reported near-full stadiums for all 102 matches played so far, with only two remaining: the third-place playoff and the final. The total attendance is projected to reach approximately 6.7 million, setting a new World Cup record despite earlier concerns about high ticket prices and immigration issues potentially deterring fans.

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we live in a divided world, we live in an aggressive world, there are so many things that divide us, that create problems for us

"We have seen millions of people coming together over the last month and a half in the United States, in Canada and in Mexico, but in every corner of the world, coming together peacefully, joyfully, wanting to spend time together and wanting to celebrate a moment of community," Infantino stated. He emphasized that this "strongest message of all" should be the foundation for a future built on community and unity.

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there are many more things that unite us than divide us

While the tournament proceeded without major security incidents, it was not without geopolitical discomfort and controversy. The Iranian team faced a tumultuous experience, narrowly missing advancement amid reported travel restrictions during a period of heightened tension with the United States. Infantino himself faced global criticism after a red card suspension was lifted for American star Folarin Balogun following pressure from then-President Donald Trump. The British government has also urged FIFA to investigate the selection process for the 2030 World Cup hosts.

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we have seen millions of people coming together over the last month and a half in the United States, in Canada and in Mexico, but in every corner of the world, coming together peacefully, joyfully, wanting to spend time together and wanting to celebrate a moment of community