Gianni Infantino, president of the International Federation of Association Football "FIFA", responded in an official statement to all the criticisms he faced over the past weeks due to the World Cup tournament played in America, Canada, and Mexico.
Infantino faced numerous criticisms after the controversial events that the World Cup witnessed before and during the competition, such as the refereeing controversy, the deportation of Somali referee Omar Artan from the country, and the arbitrary measures taken by America toward the Iranian national team.
Infantino said in the statement, which was reported by the newspaper "Mundo Deportivo": "To everyone who missed seeing the children, infants, grandparents, and parents gathering for the beautiful game of football, I say I am sorry the matches have ended, and sorry for all that joy and unity being lost. I am sorry you were so immersed in hatred and criticism that you missed all of that".
He added: "As for those who hide behind their pens, newspapers, and screens spreading hatred and false rumors, I say to them: While you sit in the back, we at FIFA are on the front lines organizing and working hard to bring you the best show in the world. There was no violence, no incidents, and security was 100% complete—only joy and happiness".
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He clarified: "While you hide, we roam the streets of Canada, Mexico, and the United States, talking to fans, interacting with people, and ensuring everyone's safety. While you divide, we unite".
Regarding the restrictions placed on the Iranian national team, Infantino continued: "Iran entered the United States without any incident or dispute. The Iranian team obtained entry visas because football is a symbol of peace".
He went on: "You mentioned a few cases whose visas were denied and ignored the millions who were granted visas from all over the world, because football unites the world, and that was clearly evident this summer".
Infantino addressed the lifting of the suspension on American striker Folarin Balogun before the match against Belgium in the round of 16 of the World Cup, continuing: "It is understandable that you are upset by some decisions issued by the competent authorities, but please refer to the public records—such decisions are common in some of the most important leagues".
He continued: "In fact, controversial referee decisions or unusual disciplinary rulings, such as red or yellow cards that may be erroneous, or subsequent decisions not to suspend players in some cases, are routine and widely accepted procedures in some of the world's biggest leagues".
He concluded: "It is strange that the very countries that apply these practices are the ones criticizing them".
It was reported that Infantino may leave his position as FIFA president, and the name of Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, president of Paris Saint-Germain, has been put forward as his successor.
