FIFA President Gianni Infantino has responded to criticism and conspiracy theories surrounding the 2026 World Cup, insisting the tournament was a successful and secure global event.
The competition concluded last week with Spain defeating 10-man defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the final held in New Jersey.
The 23rd edition of the World Cup marked the first time 48 teams featured in the tournament, with the three host nations — the United States, Canada and Mexico — all reaching the knockout stage. Canada also achieved the feat for the first time in its history.
After 104 matches, Spain secured its second World Cup title, adding to its 2010 triumph and becoming the eighth nation to win the competition more than once.
Addressing concerns over ticket prices, officiating decisions and other controversies, Infantino said fans’ frustrations were understandable but noted that similar situations occur regularly in major football leagues.
“Your dissatisfaction with certain decisions made by the relevant authorities is understandable; however, I urge you to consult public records: such decisions are commonplace in some of the most prestigious leagues.
“Indeed, ‘debatable’ refereeing decisions or ‘peculiar’ disciplinary actions, such as potentially erroneous red or yellow cards, or subsequent choices not to suspend players in specific circumstances, are routine and widely accepted in many of the largest leagues globally.
“We experienced no violence, no incidents, 100% safety and security, only joy and happiness! Seven million individuals from over 200 countries relished the tournament across 16 remarkable cities and stadiums.”
Spain’s victory made it the seventh nation to win multiple World Cup titles, while Argentina joined Germany as the only teams to have lost four finals.
