Overview
- FIFA is enforcing its stadium code at the 2026 World Cup and has confirmed that flags bearing the poppy are allowed while stewards are refusing some St George’s Cross flags that include soldier silhouettes holding rifles.
- Fans face the risk of ejection or fines for chants or banners that FIFA deems offensive or political, and travelling England supporters have been warned after anti‑Keir Starmer songs were heard at pre-tournament friendlies.
- The Football Association has told supporters that large flags (over 2 by 1.5 metres) must have written permission and images submitted in advance, and FA staff are on site to help review flags at stadiums.
- Enforcement has been inconsistent between venues, with some fans having similar flags admitted at one ground and confiscated at another, leaving steward discretion as the main source of uncertainty.
- The current measures build on past FIFA actions — including fines over poppy displays in 2016 and a recent May ruling banning pre‑revolutionary Iran flags — increasing the chance of disputes and local protests at gates.