Following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has pushed back against critics who leveled conspiracy theories regarding the tournament's officiating. The event, held across the USA, Canada, and Mexico, saw 48 teams compete in the tournament proper for the first time, with all three co-hosts reaching the knockout stages. Canada notably achieved this milestone for the first time.
The competition reached its climax in New Jersey, where Spain defeated 10-man Argentina 1-0 in extra time to secure their second title. This victory makes Spain the eighth different nation to win the tournament and the seventh to claim multiple titles. Argentina, meanwhile, joined Germany as the only teams to have lost four World Cup finals.
Addressing the dissatisfaction expressed by some regarding refereeing, Infantino stated on Instagram: "Your dissatisfaction with a few decisions made by the competent authorities is understandable, but please refer to public records: such decisions are common in some of the most important leagues." He further noted that controversial disciplinary rulings or refereeing calls are widely accepted as routine in major professional leagues globally.
Infantino praised the overall success of the event, stating, "We experienced no violence, no incidents, 100% safety and security, only joy and happiness! Seven million people from over 200 countries enjoyed the tournament across 16 fantastic cities and stadiums."
The tournament also saw significant individual achievements. France’s Kylian Mbappe secured the Golden Boot with 10 goals in eight games, bringing his career total to 22 and making him the competition's all-time top scorer. He also became the first player to win two Golden Boot awards. Spain’s captain Rodri was awarded the Golden Ball, while teammate Pau Cubarsi was named the Young Player of the tournament, marking him as one of only five teenagers to start and win a World Cup final.
All three co-hosts reached the knockouts, with Canada doing so for the first time.Following 104 matches, La Roja emerged as the champions for the second time, having first triumphed in South Africa 16 years ago, beating the Netherlands 1-0 in extra time to become the eighth different FIFA World Cup champions.Amid high ticket prices plaguing the event, among other issues, Infantino posted a message on Instagram after the World Cup got over:"Your dissatisfaction with a few decisions made by the competent authorities is understandable, but please refer to public records: such decisions are common in some of the most important leagues."Indeed, "arguable" referees' decisions or "strange" disciplinary rulings such as for instance potentially mistaken red or yellow cards or subsequent decisions not to ban players in certain situations are routine and widely accepted in some of the biggest leagues worldwide.He added:"We experienced no violence, no incidents, 100% safety and security, only joy and happiness!
