Iranian football fans at SoFi Stadium have continued to display the banned Lion-and-Sun flag during World Cup matches, defying FIFA’s crackdown on the historic pre-revolutionary symbol. The Lion-and-Sun emblem, which represented Iran before the 1979 Islamic Revolution, has been prohibited at international matches by Iran’s current government, yet supporters have found ways to bring the flags into the stadium. Witnesses at the venue reported seeing numerous flags throughout the crowd, particularly during Iran’s matches at the tournament.

FIFA has attempted to enforce restrictions on political symbols at matches, but fans have demonstrated their determination to express their identity through the historic flag. The Lion-and-Sun represents a significant period in Iranian history and serves as a symbol of opposition for many in the diaspora. Security personnel at SoFi Stadium have struggled to prevent fans from bringing the flags into the venue, with supporters employing various methods to smuggle them past checkpoints.

The ongoing display of the banned flags highlights the tension between Iranian exiles and their homeland’s current leadership. Despite potential consequences, fans have made clear their intent to continue showing the Lion-and-Sun symbol throughout the tournament, using the World Cup platform to make a statement about their cultural heritage and political views.

Kaynaklar: GN: FIFA World Cup 2026