A former FIFA boss, who was no stranger to controversy during his time leading soccer's governing body, has accused the World Cup of "losing credibility" after what happened in the United States.
The 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup, held in North America with the majority of games taking place in the United States, wrapped up on Sunday. Spain topped Argentina, 1-0, in the Men's Final at Metlife Stadium.
President Donald J. Trump played a role in the trophy ceremony. Previously in the tournament, he urged FIFA to review the red card suspension issued to U.S. striker Folarin Balogun. The World Cup ultimately allowed Balogun to play in a Round of 16 loss to Belgium.
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"All I did was ask for a review. I didn't say, you have to do this," Trump said at a White House media briefing. "This man is a smart, tough man, Gianni Infantino. He's a smart, tough man, and his stock has gone through the roof because the job he has done has been great. I feel like we have to have all the best players on the field."
But former FIFA President Sepp Blatter believes that the World Cup has "lost" its credibility.
Ex-FIFA boss rips World Cup for lack of credibility
Blatter, who served as the President of FIFA from 1998-2015, was ultimately banned from the sport until 2027 due to alleged corruption.
Now, he's ripping the World Cup for President Trump's involvement and more.
"The longest World Cup has come to an end - with the right champions. But on the way to the final whistle, the tournament had lost its credibility. Politics must not be allowed to overshadow the game. Now it is up to the fans, players and national associations to reclaim football and bring it back to its roots under new leadership," he wrote.
The pot is calling the kettle black here, in a big way.
