FIFA Grants Special Presentation Arrangement After Recognizing the Religious Significance of the Saudi National Flag.
WORLD CUP 2026
By ASAL POST Sports Desk. 17th June 2026.
Football fans following the 2026 FIFA World Cup have noticed a unique feature during the tournament’s new pre-match ceremonies the Saudi Arabia national flag is being handled differently from all other participating nations’ flags.
While FIFA’s new “fan-centric” ceremony involves giant national flags being displayed on the pitch before kick-off as teams line up for national anthems, Saudi Arabia’s flag has been granted a special arrangement to ensure it does not touch the ground.
The decision was made in recognition of the religious significance of the Saudi flag, which carries the Islamic declaration of faith, known as the Shahada or Tawhid, alongside the sword symbol.
Saudi authorities have long maintained that the inscription on the flag must be treated with the highest respect and should not be subjected to conditions that could be considered disrespectful, including being placed on the ground.
Under normal FIFA World Cup ceremony procedures, large national flags are spread across the playing surface before matches. However, an exception has been made for Saudi Arabia, with its flag presented in an alternative manner during tournament ceremonies.
The special arrangement attracted international attention during Saudi Arabia’s opening Group H match against Uruguay at Miami Stadium, Florida, where spectators noticed that the Saudi flag was not displayed on the pitch alongside other national flags.
The rules also strictly prohibit lowering the Saudi national flag or the flag of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in a manner that allows it to touch the ground, water or any surface beneath it.
FIFA’s decision followed consultations regarding the importance attached to the wording and symbols featured on the Saudi national flag.
The treatment of the Saudi flag reflects the country’s strict regulations governing its national symbol. Authorities prohibit displaying flags that are faded, damaged or in poor condition, while old flags must be properly disposed of to prevent misuse or disrespect.
The rules also prohibit lowering the Saudi national flag or the flag representing the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in a way that allows it to touch the ground, water or any surface beneath it.
Uruguay’s flag was also lifted during the ceremony against Saudi Arabia, reportedly to maintain balance and presentation during the display.
The new FIFA ceremony has already attracted attention beyond the football action, with several matches experiencing delayed kick-offs due to the extended pre-match preparations.
As a result, Saudi Arabia’s flag will continue to receive special handling throughout the 2026 World Cup, ensuring it remains elevated during official tournament ceremonies.
Despite the ceremonial spotlight, Saudi Arabia’s opening match produced an entertaining contest. The Green Falcons secured a 1-1 draw against Uruguay, with Abdulelah Al-Amri giving Saudi Arabia the lead before Maxi Araujo equalized late for Uruguay.
Saudi Arabia will next face tournament favourites Spain on June 21 before concluding their Group H campaign against Cape Verde, who shocked many fans after holding Spain to a goalless draw.
The unique presentation of Saudi Arabia’s flag has become one of the many cultural stories attracting global attention during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, highlighting how football continues to bring together sport, tradition and national identity.
