Blatter Launches Scathing Attack After 2026 World Cup: Calls for Infantino's Ouster, Claims Tournament Lost Credibility

The record-breaking tournament, featuring 104 matches and 48 teams, was overshadowed by controversy surrounding the rescinded red card for American forward Folarin Balogun. US President Donald Trump confirmed he had asked Infantino to allow Balogun to play, but the FIFA chief maintains the decision was made independently.

 Blatter, who led FIFA from 1998 to 2015 during an era plagued by corruption allegations, took to social media platform X on Tuesday, writing: “The longest World Cup has concluded, with the right champions. But on its way to the final whistle, the tournament lost its credibility. Politics cannot overshadow the game. It is now up to the fans, players, and national associations to reclaim football and bring it back to its roots under new leadership.”

 Infantino succeeded Blatter and is popular with many federations for expanding the World Cup. The tournament could potentially feature up to 64 teams by 2030. He plans to run for a fourth term as FIFA president next year, though some European federations, such as Germany's, have yet to endorse him.