Ivković slams FIFA: 'If you don't respect anyone, you can't be a leader'

Croatian football expert Tomislav Ivković has sharply criticized FIFA's leadership, accusing them of indifference and a lack of respect towards players and coaches during a recent major tournament. Speaking on the HRT program Americana, Ivković described the organizers' approach to various issues as indolent, suggesting they operate with a disregard for others' concerns.

"The leaders in the organization seem to have no connection with the other participants, the working class, meaning the players and coaches," Ivković stated. "They behaved indolently towards all problems, as if to say that everything will be as they want. There is nothing worse. If you don't respect anyone, you can't be a leader."

The tournament, which was lauded as one of the largest in history with record participation, was also marred by numerous controversies. These included debates over officiating, the use of VAR technology, and decisions regarding player suspensions. Ivković suggested that while FIFA's president might gain respect from less significant nations, the organization's financial standing remains strong.

Despite the criticisms and contentious moments, the World Cup is projected to conclude with substantial financial gains for FIFA. The event also attracted record viewership, with matches played across the United States, Canada, and Mexico drawing massive audiences.

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The leaders in the organization seem to have no connection with the other participants, the working class, meaning the players and coaches. They behaved indolently towards all problems, as if to say that everything will be as they want. There is nothing worse. If you don't respect anyone, you can't be a leader.