1982 Italy World Cup Winner Fulvio Collovati Criticizes FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Expanded Tournament Format

Fulvio Collovati, a former Inter and Milan defender and a member of Italy’s 1982 World Cup-winning team, has launched a strong attack on FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Collovati's criticism centers on the expanded 48-team World Cup format, accusing Infantino of prioritizing business interests over sporting merit.

Collovati expressed his disapproval of Infantino’s recent comments regarding Italy’s absence from the tournament and the perceived quality of some participating nations. He stated, “He should be ashamed, Infantino. First he acts as a friend of Italian footballers, then he delivers these low blows. If he wants to criticise Italian football, let him do so openly,” with quotes via FCInter1908.

The 1982 World Cup winner dismissed Infantino’s suggestion that Italy might qualify if the tournament expanded to 64 teams, calling such remarks "jokes that don’t make people laugh." Collovati added that Infantino, possessing Swiss citizenship, should joke with the Swiss next time.

His most pointed criticism was reserved for the 48-team format itself, which he labeled “the real joke.” Collovati stated that the tournament includes “national teams inside who do not play football.” He cited personal experiences, mentioning that he commented on a Mexico vs. South Africa match on the radio, where he felt he could play at his current age in the South African team. He also anticipated a similar scenario when commenting on an upcoming Germany vs. Curacao match.

Journalist Alessandro Alciato added a related note by recirculating an old quote from Collovati where he claimed women cannot understand football tactics, highlighting past controversies surrounding the former defender.

According to Yahoo Sports Soccer, Collovati's remarks underscore ongoing debate regarding the World Cup's format and competitive integrity.