FIFA to have all 26 squad members on pitch for World Cup anthems

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·6 June 2026

FIFA to have all 26 squad members on pitch for World Cup anthems

FIFA has announced a new pre-match protocol for the 2026 World Cup, with all 26 squad members on the pitch for the national anthems.

The change comes less than a week before the tournament begins in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Previously, only the starting XI lined up on the field before kick-off.

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Under the revised ceremony, entire squads will assemble in the centre circle, with players and referees facing each other during the anthems.

The move is intended to enhance how matches are experienced and to create a shared moment of unity, pride and emotion that belongs to the teams and to everyone. It also reflects the view that the World Cup is about every player and every fan.

Germany open their campaign against Curaçao on 14 June.

Source: BuLi News