FIFA to ban Iran pre-revolution flag from World Cup stadiums | OneFootball

FIFA will ban Iran’s pre-revolution flag from World Cup stadiums between 11 June and 19 July, meaning only the Islamic Republic of Iran flag will be permitted.

As in Qatar in 2022, FIFA plans to stop Iranian supporters from bringing the lion and sun flag, which mirrors the tricolour but replaces the Islamic emblem and script. According to The Athletic, Iran’s federation has sent FIFA conditions for its participation, including respect for the Iranian flag.

Seen as a symbol of the Shah’s former regime and of protest against today’s authorities, the flag was dropped in 1979 but remains popular among the Iranian diaspora, notably on the west coast of the United States. It was barred four years ago amid a diplomatic thaw between Qatar and Iran, and some fans were refused entry.

Iran’s involvement in the tournament remains uncertain after a late-February attack inside the country by the United States and Israel.

The Palestinian flag, as the official flag of a FIFA member association, is expected to be allowed in stadiums.

Source: L'Équipe