Sometimes it is better to say nothing. Almost always when the controversy involves those in positions of power. Fifa president Gianni Infantino ought, therefore, to take the royal gag, ie, never complain, never explain.
But no. An inflamed Infantino went full Donald Trump over criticisms levelled at the World Cup.
It is not known if his Instagram rant was composed in an early-hours “you crazy bastards” blitz, ala Trump, or in the calm light of day, but it did summon his most infantile, insensate, intolerant, thin-skinned, conceited, vain, self-righteous, supercilious and mulish sensibilities.
Thus were the entirely legitimate concerns of reasonable people about the more distasteful elements of the near-six-week pageant, including the travel bans on some officials and fans, direct political interference from Trump over the red card issued to America’s star player, Folarin Balogun, sympathetic refereeing of some matches, exaggerated ticket pricing, inflated travel and accommodation costs, the unnecessary imposition of drinks (ads) breaks in enclosed, air-conditioned stadiums, etc, dismissed with bitter condescension and hauteur.
His spiritual coupling with the President of the United States is indicative of his own character traits and ethical orientation. That he would readily absorb many of the less appealing attributes of the world’s most powerful figure over the organising and delivery of the World Cup flows from this.
