FIFA Bans Pre-Revolutionary Iranian Flag from World Cup
FIFA has stated that the pre-revolutionary flag of Iran will not be allowed at this summer’s World Cup, citing a violation of its code of conduct.
The original Iranian flag, which features a large lion and sun, shares the same colors as the current flag of the Islamic Republic. This flag is cherished by many Iranian dissidents and refugees. After the 1979 revolution, the new government modified the flag, replacing the lion and sun with an Islamic emblem, as they associated the original symbols with the exiled Shah.
A source close to FIFA confirmed that the organization will “ban the display of pre-revolutionary flags at its venues this summer,” as reported by The Athletic.
The Iranian Football Federation had previously expressed demands to FIFA to ensure their participation in the World Cup, including a call for “respect for the Iranian flag.”
When inquired if flags depicting the pre-revolutionary design would be permitted, FIFA clarified that they had issued a list of prohibited items, aligning with their stadium code of conduct. This encompasses any material considered political or discriminatory.
FIFA explicitly mentioned in Article 3.1.24 of its Stadium Code of Conduct that any materials aimed at discrimination based on various factors—including race, gender identity, or political beliefs—are prohibited.
Regarding the Palestinian flag, FIFA indicated that it is the “officially recognized flag of the member associations of FIFA.”
In Los Angeles, Emer Karsaz, an Iranian, expressed her expectation of significant protests at the stadium. “I’ll do whatever it takes to organize a huge protest because I’m sure everyone will be very angry,” she said, emphasizing that Iranians would rally to show their discontent.
Karim Sadjadpour, a policy expert on Iran and the U.S. at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, suggested that FIFA’s ban may lead to substantial backlash in Los Angeles. He compared the situation to preventing Americans from displaying the Stars and Stripes, indicating it could ignite widespread unrest.
