Infantino hits back at critics: "Consumed by hate"

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has launched a strong defense against his critics, accusing them of being "consumed by hate" and missing the positive aspects of the recent World Cup. In a 15-page Instagram post, Infantino directly addressed those who focused on negativity, expressing regret that they overlooked the joy and unity experienced by fans.

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I regret that you were so absorbed in hate and criticism that you missed everything.

"I regret that you were so absorbed in hate and criticism that you missed everything," Infantino wrote, suggesting that critics failed to see families celebrating together and the unifying power of football. He highlighted how the tournament brought together nations like Iran and the USA without conflict, noting the solidarity shown when the Iranian team played.

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When the Iranian team started playing, all the shouts turned into a single song.

Infantino also addressed several controversial incidents during the tournament. He described the decision not to suspend a player after a red card as "routine and accepted in some of the world's biggest leagues." Similarly, he dismissed the denial of an entry permit to a Somali referee as a minor issue, stating that "millions of visas were approved from all over the world."

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It is routine and accepted in some of the world's biggest leagues.

However, Infantino's assessment of a "perfect" World Cup contrasts sharply with reactions from others. Lise Klaveness, president of the Norwegian Football Federation, plans to file a complaint with FIFA's ethics committee regarding the overturned suspension. She warned that bending rules sets a dangerous precedent for the sport. Additionally, 72 members of the European Parliament have called for an investigation into the handling of the suspended player's case, urging national federations to request an inquiry by FIFA's independent ethics committee.

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Millions (visas) were approved from all over the world.