Iran supporters display banned pre-revolutionary flag at FIFA World Cup match vs New Zealand

Iranian supporters defied FIFA’s stadium regulations by displaying the country’s pre-revolutionary “Lion and Sun” flag inside SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles during Iran’s opening 2026 FIFA World Cup match against New Zealand on Monday.

The Group G fixture unfolded amid a politically charged atmosphere, with hundreds of demonstrators gathering outside the stadium ahead of kickoff to protest against the Iranian government, according to the New York Post.

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Inside the venue, the pre-revolutionary flag was visible across the stands on banners, flags and T-shirts despite FIFA’s prohibition on political symbols at tournament venues.

Under regulations announced in May, FIFA’s code of conduct bars the display of “banners, flags, flyers, apparel and other paraphernalia that are political, offensive and/or discriminatory in nature.” The governing body considers the pre-revolutionary flag to fall under those restrictions.

Security measures at SoFi Stadium were stringent, with spectators passing through metal detectors and bag inspections before entering. In some cases, security personnel asked fans wearing T-shirts featuring the pre-revolutionary emblem to remove them. When supporters said they had no alternative clothing, they were instructed to turn the shirts inside out before being allowed inside.

However, enforcement appeared limited once fans entered the stadium, as the flag remained widely visible throughout the match on clothing and banners across the crowd.

The pre-match atmosphere was further intensified during the playing of Iran’s national anthem, when some supporters turned their backs to the field in protest.

Outside the stadium, anti-government demonstrators gathered with drums and banners while chanting slogans calling for political change, arguing that the national team has become a symbol used by the current regime.

Also Read: FIFA World Cup: Iran fight back twice to hold New Zealand 2-2 in thrilling Group G opener

On the pitch, the dramatic Group G encounter ended in a 2-2 draw, with Iran coming from behind twice to earn a point against New Zealand.