Cristiano Ronaldo has sparked fresh debate on social media after liking a post that described FIFA as “one of the most corrupt institutions on the planet.”
The post, shared by a journalist, criticised FIFA’s governance and decision-making, accusing the world football governing body of widespread corruption. Ronaldo’s verified account was seen among those who liked the post, triggering widespread reactions online.
FIFA faced intense scrutiny throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup and in the lead-up to the tournament’s final over several controversial decisions.
Speaking on the Spanish television programme Espejo Público before the World Cup final, journalists Pilar Rodrigues Losantos and Ruben Amon strongly criticised FIFA’s handling of the tournament.
Ronaldo, whose Portugal side were eliminated by Spain in the Round of 16, liked a post featuring the discussion.
Rodrigues Losantos claimed that Argentina had benefited from favourable treatment during the competition.
“Argentina is a team that should have been eliminated about five matches ago—thanks to the help of FIFA, one of the most corrupt institutions on the planet,” she said.
“Consequently, Argentina doesn’t scare me at all; what scares me is Infantino. I believe we won’t just be playing against Argentina, but against the entire FIFA institution, which wants to hand the World Cup to Messi, just as happened four years ago in Qatar.”
Amon also criticised FIFA, arguing that the organisation had distanced football from its traditional fan base.
“Ticket prices have turned what was once a sport for the masses into an experience reserved for the elite. Football is a people’s sport that has ceased to be one,” he said.
“I consider FIFA to be an abject, mafia-like, and shameful organisation. Football survives despite the conduct of this disturbing body, and we will still enjoy the match, but not because of the conditions FIFA has imposed.”
Spain went on to defeat Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the final, with Ferran Torres scoring the winning goal in the 106th minute.
