Infantino accuses World Cup critics of spreading hate

FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the 2026 World Cup as a success of 'happiness, unity, safety and togetherness,' accusing critics of spreading hate and false narratives. In an open letter, he dismissed controversies over US visa restrictions, disciplinary decisions, and the on-pitch altercation in the final as routine. Infantino highlighted the participation of teams from conflict-hit regions as proof of football's unifying power.