FIFA adjusts pre-match protocol at 2026 World Cup following request from Saudi Football Federation

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Sport 24-06-2026 | 10:10

FIFA adjusts pre-match protocol at 2026 World Cup following request from Saudi Football Federation

FIFA Raises Saudi Flag Above Pitch During 2026 World Cup Matches Over Religious Inscription Concern.
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FIFA adjusts pre-match protocol at 2026 World Cup following request from Saudi Football Federation
Iraqi flag. (AFP)
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In an unprecedented move, the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has decided to exempt Saudi Arabia and Iraq from the pre-match ceremony that involves placing national flags on the ground during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing the presence of the name of God on both countries’ flags.

 

During World Cup matches held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, large national flags are traditionally displayed on each half of the pitch and laid on the ground as players line up near the center circle for the playing of their national anthems.

 

However, when the Saudi and Iraqi national teams play, their flags will be displayed above the pitch rather than placed on the ground, allowing the pre-match ceremonies to proceed while respecting the religious significance of the sacred text inscribed on both flags.

 

A FIFA spokesperson told Reuters, “As part of the enhancements introduced to the opening ceremonies of the 2026 World Cup, FIFA is implementing a new ceremony format primarily aimed at enhancing the fan experience.”

 

He added, “In organizing these ceremonies, FIFA has worked closely with the participating teams to accommodate reasonable requests related to the pre-match celebrations.”

 

Placing flags on the ground or in areas where they may be stepped on is considered inappropriate and disrespectful by many Muslims.

The Saudi flag during the playing of the national anthem. (AFP)
The Saudi flag during the playing of the national anthem. (AFP)

 

Why Was the Saudi Flag Raised from the Ground Before the Uruguay Match in the 2026 World Cup?

The match between Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in the first round of Group H in the 2026 World Cup saw a notable moment, as the Saudi flag was not placed on the ground.

 

The Saudi team drew 1–1 with Uruguay in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

 

In the same group, Spain and Cape Verde played out a goalless draw.

 

FIFA decided to raise the Saudi flag above the ground during the playing of the national anthem before the match against Uruguay, deviating from the usual pre-match World Cup protocol.

 

This decision was made because the Saudi flag bears the inscription of monotheism, a request that FIFA agreed to following an appeal from the Saudi Football Federation.

Tags
Football ، Saudi Arabia ، Iraq ، 2026 World Cup ، United States ، Canada ، Mexico ، World Cup ، International Federation of Association Football ، Uruguay ، Cape Verde ، Spain