Tom Brady has found himself at the centre of a storm after describing FIFA president Gianni Infantino as a "man of the people" in promotional material for the forthcoming 2026 World Cup.
The seven-time Super Bowl champion's remarks, delivered in a video segment designed to build enthusiasm for the tournament, have provoked fierce criticism from football supporters worldwide.
Many view the characterisation as fundamentally at odds with how ordinary fans perceive FIFA's leadership.
The controversy has cast the retired American football star into unfamiliar territory, drawing him into longstanding debates about governance and accessibility in the world's most popular sport.
Tom Brady has revealed his excitement ahead of the World Cup
| PAThe backlash has been swift and unsparing.
One supporter wrote: "In my lifetime, I have never seen such a big disconnect between celebrities/those in power/wealthy individuals vs regular people.
"Calling Infantino a man of the people is like p***ing in my face and telling me it's raining."
Another fan responded with pointed sarcasm: "Nothing says 'man of the people' like making the World Cup unaffordable for the people lol."
Critics contend that the expanded tournament format and escalating match-day costs have placed elite football increasingly beyond the reach of grassroots supporters.
Fifa president Gianni Infantino has proved a polarising figure
| GETTYBroader concerns about FIFA's transparency and decision-making have compounded the discontent surrounding Brady's endorsement.
Despite the controversy, Brady has spoken at length about his belief that football possesses deep cultural roots across the Atlantic.
"I think there's always been a huge appetite for soccer in America," the NFL legend stated. "Every kid in America grows up playing soccer."
He pointed to the sport's presence in playgrounds and youth leagues as evidence of an organic connection that predates the current commercial boom.
"They play it in the school yard. We play it foundationally with some of the leagues that we're a part of," he added.
This grassroots foundation, Brady argues, explains why the game's recent expansion feels natural rather than artificially manufactured.
Tom Brady won 7 Super Bowls in his time in the NFL | GettyBrady attended the World Cup draw in December and expressed considerable enthusiasm for the tournament's expanded format.
"It was great to be a part of the FIFA draw, but just to know that there are 48 countries now participating in the World Cup in all of North America is incredibly exciting because it just means more inclusion, more countries, more fans," he remarked.
The United States will host the World Cup, alongside Canada and Mexico
| PAThe retired quarterback emphasised the significance of hosting the event on American soil, describing it as "absolutely incredible" for showcasing players on the grandest stage.
The tournament, spanning sixteen host cities across the United States, Mexico and Canada, commences on 11th June.