Infantino’s Instagram salvo silences critics without dialogue

In a striking Instagram post, FIFA president Gianni Infantino launched a direct attack on journalists and opponents, accusing them of spreading hate while defending the World Cup as humanity’s finest celebration, and then turned off comments, leaving no room for reply.

According to an extensive report by The Athletic, the Swiss (Zwitser) president used his Instagram‑account to confront journalists, critics and opponents of FIFA head‑on. The report highlights the unusually sharp tone of the communication.

Infantino disabled reactions on the Instagram‑bericht, meaning users cannot comment on the message in which the FIFA‑voorzitter accuses his critics of "spreading hate" and praises the tournament as a "celebration of humanity at its best". This action prevents any public discussion under the post.

The 15‑slide Instagram‑account message urged detractors to "meditate, pray or watch a football match" instead of wasting time criticizing FIFA. It was also distributed through official FIFA channels.

In the same communication, Infantino described the World Cup as a "celebration of humanity at its best" and noted that billions of people followed the event, which he said proceeded without notable incidents and allowed supporters to enjoy football safely.

These statements contrast with several controversies that shadowed the tournament, including US visa restrictions that hampered supporters and officials, and the denial of entry to Somali referee Omar Artan. The report points out that these issues affected the smooth running of the event.

Infantino also defended the decision to lift the suspension of US striker Folarin Balogun only a day before the round of 16 against the Red Devils (Belgium). The move drew heavy criticism from the Belgian FA, UEFA, European politicians and prompted the Norwegian FA to announce an official complaint.

The FIFA‑voorzitter denied any political pressure, referencing similar disciplinary decisions in national leagues. He argued that "disputable refereeing and disciplinary decisions" are inherent to football.

Notably, Infantino’s extensive statement omitted references to investigations into ticket prices, legal procedures concerning Iranian supporters, and the four deaths that occurred during the World Cup celebrations in Mexico City. He did thank organizers, security services and volunteers for a "100 percent safe" tournament.

NIEUW Ontvang meldingen bij belangrijk nieuws! Schrijf je HIER in! Volg Voetbalkrant nu ook via Google! Ook Dat Zijn Instagram accounts provide a direct line for fans, but this episode shows how Infantino’s approach sidesteps traditional media interaction.