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Iranian fans protest FIFA's ban on pre-revolution flag at World Cup

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 9, 2026, 9:27 AM

Last updated Jun 9, 2026

Iranian fans protest FIFA's ban on pre-revolution flag at World Cup

Summary

Fans in Los Angeles are advocating for the inclusion of Iran's pre-1979 flag at the World Cup, set to occur soon. The Lion and Sun flag, representing a stance against the current Iranian regime, is banned inside stadiums as FIFA classifies it as a political symbol. Iranian opposition activists expressed their frustration outside SoFi Stadium, where Iran's team is scheduled to face New Zealand on June 15. The protests reflect the ongoing tensions between the Iranian government and its citizens, particularly amid a fragile ceasefire and rising dissent against the Islamic Republic. The Iranian Football Federation reportedly demanded respect for the official flag for participation in the tournament.

Source Links

BBC Sport

Key Details

•Activists in Los Angeles advocate for the Lion and Sun flag at the World Cup.
•FIFA bans the flag, classifying it as a political symbol.
•Protestors express solidarity with the Iranian people and call for regime change.
•Iran's team faces New Zealand on June 15 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
•The Iranian Football Federation made flag respect a condition for tournament participation.

Latest Updates

9:27 AMBBC Sport — The flag Iranians are not allowed to wave at the World Cup

What they're saying

"
Iran football fans living in Los Angeles explain why they want to wave Iran's pre-1979 Islamic revolution flag and dismiss the one that is on their team's shirt.
— BBC Sport

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