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Infantino: World Cup '100% safe' amid visa, discipline row; slams critics as 'haters'
🇰🇷 South Korea /Sports

Infantino: World Cup '100% safe' amid visa, discipline row; slams critics as 'haters'

From Chosun Ilbo · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the 2026 World Cup, asserting it was "100% safe" despite controversies.
  • He directly criticized those who questioned the tournament, accusing them of spreading "hate and lies."
  • Infantino's remarks came in an open letter addressing visa, disciplinary, and refereeing issues surrounding the event.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has launched a strong defense of the 2026 World Cup, declaring the tournament "100% safe" and directly confronting critics. Instead of apologizing for controversies surrounding visas, disciplinary actions, and refereeing, Infantino chose a public counter-offensive.

In an open letter released on July 27 (KST), Infantino accused those who have criticized the tournament of spreading narratives of "hate and lies." He asserted that the event showcased safety, inclusivity, and harmony, positioning it as a success.

The FIFA president's remarks come amid ongoing discussions and concerns regarding various aspects of the World Cup's organization and execution. While Infantino projects an image of unwavering confidence, the criticisms he addresses point to significant challenges and debates within the football community and among observers.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Chosun Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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