The tournament has been overshadowed by FIFA’s decision to overturn the suspension of an American player following intervention by US President Donald Trump, as well as allegations from some fans that refereeing decisions have favoured defending champion Argentina in crucial matches.

Against that backdrop, critics say FIFA’s record on Palestinian football reflects a broader pattern of inconsistency, according to a report by Al Jazeera.

They argue the organisation has repeatedly failed to uphold its own human rights commitments by refusing calls from the Palestinian Football Association (PFA) to suspend the Israeli Football Association (IFA) over clubs based in illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank.

The criticism extends beyond league participation.

Rights advocates accuse FIFA of remaining silent over the deaths and injuries of Palestinian footballers, the detention of players, the destruction of football facilities and restrictions that they say have severely disrupted Palestinian teams, including limits on travel and movement.

Critics also contend that FIFA’s repeated description of the issue as a complex legal matter effectively echoes Israel’s position on the status of the occupied Palestinian territories, despite international court rulings and UN resolutions cited by Palestinian officials and rights groups.

The organisation has faced growing pressure during Gianni Infantino’s presidency.

Human rights groups have accused FIFA of helping normalise Israel’s policies by resisting calls for disciplinary action and promoting symbolic initiatives instead.

Recent criticism has focused on proposals for youth matches between Palestinian and Israeli teams and Infantino’s public engagements with Israeli football officials.

Infantino has also drawn criticism over appearances at political events linked to Israel, with opponents arguing such engagements undermine FIFA’s claim of political neutrality.

Supporters of Palestinian football say the latest World Cup controversies reinforce concerns that FIFA has become increasingly vulnerable to political influence rather than acting as an independent global sporting body.

They argue the governing body has failed to separate football from geopolitics despite its own statutes calling for political neutrality.

The criticism intensified after Infantino urged the public to “chill” and “relax” when questioned about controversies surrounding the tournament’s organisation and the treatment of players, referees and supporters.

Despite their criticism of FIFA, advocates say Palestinian football continues to endure despite decades of conflict and restrictions, arguing that the sport remains an enduring symbol of Palestinian identity and resilience.