Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter has launched a series of dire protests at the governing body after 2026. FIFA World Cupsaying that the competition has “lost credibility” and urging fans, players and national organizations to take the game back to politics.Blatter’s strong message came just two days after Spain beat defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time to lift their second World Cup title, ending the first ever 48-team tournament.Although he admits that Spain are worthy champions, the 90-year-old Swiss has not held back in his assessment of the tournament.Referring to X, Blatter wrote: “The longest World Cup is over – it’s the right champions. But heading into the final whistle, the contest lost credibility. Politics should not be allowed to overshadow the game. “He concluded with a strong appeal to those involved in football.“Now it is up to the fans, players and national organizations to take back football and return it to its roots under the new leadership,” he said.The post also included FIFA, the World Cup, FIFA’s long-running show, Donald Trump and current FIFA President Gianni Infantino, emphasizing who Blatter believes should be at the center of the debate.
Politics and controversy dominate the race discussion
Blatter is one of the most vocal critics of FIFA’s governance under Infantino, and his latest comments reflect a growing scrutiny of football’s competition and politics in the growing sport.The 2026 edition, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, was the largest in the history of the World Cup, with 48 teams, 104 matches in 16 venues over a month.While the football itself was widely praised, several on-field controversies made headlines throughout the game.Political disputes over Iran’s participation, visa disputes, travel restrictions affecting supporters from several countries, debate over immigration policies, concerns over summer heat and criticism of FIFA’s growing commercialism, all fueled discussions at the competitions.The relationship between US President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino has also been heavily scrutinized, especially after Balogun’s suspension before the United States of 16.
Infantino celebrates victory despite opposition
Despite criticism, FIFA has described the tournament as one of the most successful in history.Infantino revealed the figures of around seven million viewers, while estimating that more than 6 billion viewers watched the tournament worldwide.TV audiences also remained strong. Spanish-language broadcaster Telemundo reported that the Spain-Argentina final attracted 22.6 million viewers, making it the most-watched World Cup final in Spanish-language television history.Attendance in the United States, Canada and Mexico also exceeded expectations despite concerns about ticket prices and conditions.On the field, an expanded format of 48 teams allayed fears that the tournament would end. Surprise packages such as Cape Verde and Congo enjoyed memorable matches before the tournament delivered a rich semi-final featuring Spain, Argentina, France and England.