Overview
- FIFA told media this week that fans may not bring the Lion‑and‑Sun pre‑revolutionary flag or apparel displaying that emblem into 2026 World Cup stadiums, citing Article 3.1.24 of its Stadium Code of Conduct.
- The Athletic first reported the policy and multiple outlets confirmed that the Palestinian flag will be allowed because it is the officially approved flag of a FIFA member association.
- The Iranian Football Federation had asked FIFA to permit only the Islamic Republic’s flag where Iran plays, a demand that preceded recent talks FIFA described as constructive.
- Iranian diaspora leaders and opposition figures immediately denounced the decision and have signaled plans to protest, with experts warning strict enforcement in U.S. venues such as Los Angeles could trigger large confrontations.
- How strictly stadium security will apply the ban remains unclear, and the policy revives criticism over inconsistent enforcement at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.