FIFA announced that its Social Media Protection Service (SMPS) has blocked more than seven million potentially abusive posts and comments since the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, reinforcing its commitment to protecting participants from online harassment.

The system monitors millions of social media interactions in real time, identifying and filtering discriminatory, threatening and abusive content directed at players, coaches, referees and national teams before it reaches them.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized that protecting everyone involved in football remains one of the organization's priorities, stressing that social media should never become a platform for hatred or intimidation.

"Football should bring people together, not divide them. Nobody should be subjected to abuse or threats simply for doing their job on the field. We will continue using every tool available to protect those who make our sport possible," Infantino said.

The protection service has been available to every participating national team, as well as players, coaching staffs and match officials throughout the tournament. Beyond filtering offensive content, the system also preserves evidence that can be shared with relevant authorities when potential criminal behavior is detected.

According to FIFA, the initiative is part of its long-term strategy to combat online hate speech and digital abuse across international competitions. Since its introduction, the service has significantly reduced the amount of abusive content reaching football's main protagonists.

With the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina approaching, FIFA continues to operate the system around the clock to provide a safer digital environment throughout the conclusion of the tournament.

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