Gianni Infantino addresses FIFA critics in open letter amid controversies

FIFA president Gianni Infantino published an open letter urging critics to "reflect, meditate or pray" while defending FIFA amid significant World Cup controversies. Infantino's letter, released on his Instagram and FIFA's site on July 27, highlights his attendance at 44 matches and aims to downplay issues including visa rejections and criticism surrounding high ticket prices. He argues that many experience joy at the World Cup, despite claims of incidents and inflated costs. The letter addresses various criticisms, asserting that visa approvals far outnumber denials and likening disciplinary decisions to those in other leagues. The World Cup took place in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.

• 2:56 PMYahoo Sports — Gianni Infantino fires back at FIFA critics in letter ignoring World Cup controversies