FIFA Excludes Saudi Arabia and Iraq Flags from Ground Ceremony at 2026 World Cup

The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has decided to exclude the flags of Saudi Arabia and Iraq from the customary ceremony of placing national flags on the pitch before matches at the 2026 World Cup. This decision is due to the presence of the Islamic declaration of faith on the flags of both countries.

During the ongoing World Cup matches held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, large flags representing the competing teams are usually displayed across each half of the field. These flags are laid on the ground while the two teams line up near the center circle to sing their national anthems.

However, when Saudi Arabia or Iraq are playing, their flags will be raised above the pitch rather than placed on the ground. This adjustment aims to maintain the pre-match celebrations while respecting the religious sensitivities related to the sacred inscriptions on the flags.

A FIFA spokesperson told Reuters, "As part of the enhancements introduced to the 2026 World Cup opening ceremony, FIFA is implementing a new format for the proceedings that primarily focuses on satisfying the fans."

The spokesperson added, "In organizing these celebrations, FIFA has worked closely with the participating teams to accommodate reasonable requests regarding the ceremony."

Placing flags that bear the Islamic declaration of faith on the ground or in areas where they might be stepped on is considered inappropriate by Muslim communities.