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Infantino responds to the World Cup controversies

A week after the final, FIFA president Gianni Infantino released a statement against those he considers critics for “spreading hatred and false rumors” about the tournament. In a 900-word message posted on Instagram and the FIFA site, Infantino praised his organization for “offering the best show in the world” and generating “joy and unity.”

“I am sorry that you were so consumed by hate and criticism that you missed it all,” he wrote, addressing “those who are behind their pens and papers, behind their screens spreading hate and false rumors.”

Recurring criticisms

During the World Cup, FIFA faced accusations for denying visas to Iranian leaders, a Somali referee and fans; Donald Trump’s alleged influence in allowing Folarin Balogun to avoid a sanction; unprecedented ticket prices and commercial breaks at every time.

Infantino defended that “every city was packed with fans” and that while they celebrated, critics “were busy sowing seeds of hate.” He added that FIFA was walking the streets of Canada, Mexico and the United States talking to fans and ensuring security.

Strained relationship with the media

Infantino maintains a tense relationship with the press. His pre-tournament conference in Mexico City was his first with full international attendance since March 2023. In Rwanda, after his re-election, he asked journalists: “Why are you so bad?” In Mexico he suggested that critics “calm down, relax.”

Additionally, Congressman Jamie Raskin requested documents on ties between FIFA and the Trump administration. FIFA did not immediately respond.

Visas and the Iran case

Iran played at least three games in the United States, but changed its training camp to Tijuana. Infantino noted that Iran “entered the United States without incident or conflict” and that they worked to “unite two countries at war.”

Among the fans denied a visa was Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, a Congolese fan known for his statue, who attended a match in Mexico. Infantino argued that “they mentioned the few people who were denied visas and overlooked the millions who were approved.”

Decision on Balogun

Regarding the red card to the American forward, Infantino said that “subsequent decisions not to sanction players in certain situations are routine.” FIFA did not revoke the card but postponed the sanction; The written verdict has not yet been published.

Infantino closed with an invitation to reflect, meditate or watch a soccer game. “Much love to everyone,” he wrote.

Return after months of inactivity

After eight months without playing an official minute, Javier Hernández decided to continue his career. The Mexican forward, top scorer in the history of the National Team, signed with Atlético Dallas, a new USL Championship franchise.

Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news:

“Javier Hernández has agreed to join Atlético Dallas, the first signing of the new USL Championship franchise. He will begin playing in 2027, but will contribute to the project immediately.”

The agreement represents an opportunity for Hernández, who had faced uncertainty about his future. His return to American soccer seeks to revitalize his professional career.

Atlético Dallas is preparing for its debut in the USL Championship, the second division of soccer in the United States. The addition of Hernández not only strengthens the team, but also raises the profile of the league, which aims to attract more fans.

Chicharito, 36, has a long career in Europe and Mexico, in addition to his previous time in the MLS with LA Galaxy. His experience will be key to the sports project of the new franchise, which begins operations in 2027.

The footballer, who has overcome injuries and periods of inactivity, is betting on a new chapter far from retirement. Mexican fans closely follow his career, now in American promotion soccer.

The dream of Europe

Cruz Azul defeated Toluca this Saturday and was crowned the Champion of Champions. Erik Lira, captain of the team, raised the trophy and then spoke about his future.

The Mexican midfielder, a figure in the 2026 World Cup and a reference for La Maquina, has his sights set on the old continent. Even without a formal signing, the possibilities grow.

At the end of the game, Lira spoke to Televisa and was clear about his aspirations:

“It’s a very long market, our season starts much earlier than theirs. I have a dream that I’m not going to stop until I achieve it and it won’t be in me. I want to leave and we are doing everything we can.”

Mauricio Ymay asked him if there was a specific offer. The player denied having it, but revealed advanced negotiations with a club that he preferred not to name.

“There is still no formal offer, there are quite advanced talks. I think that this week something can move. It is a dream that I am not going to stop until I fulfill it, my goal is that and I am going to achieve it.”

Lira has established himself as a pillar of Cruz Azul since his arrival at La Noria. His performance in Liga MX and with the National Team makes him a candidate to make the leap to Europe. The next few weeks will be key to defining your future.