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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Jack Rathborn and Kieran Jackson

Protests erupt outside Iran’s World Cup opener after court upholds flag ban

Iran World Cup Fifa
  • Iranian Americans protested at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles during Iran 's World Cup 2026 opener, displaying the banned pre-revolutionary flag.
  • The protests reflect ongoing anger against the Iranian government, with Los Angeles being a significant center for the Iranian diaspora.
  • A lawsuit challenging FIFA 's ban on political symbols, specifically the pre-revolutionary flag, was denied by Judge Curtis A. Kin, upholding the ban.
  • Fans were divided, with some attending to protest or boo the Iranian team, while others urged unity and support for Team Melli.
  • Iran's participation in the tournament has sparked controversy due to geopolitical tensions and concerns over Tehran's crackdown on protesters.

IN FULL

Why Fifa has banned Iran’s pre-revolutionary flag at World Cup

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