Iranian fans at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium openly defied a FIFA ban on the pre-revolutionary Lion-and-Sun flag during Sunday’s (June 21) World Cup match against Belgium, filling the stands with the symbol despite strict tournament rules. The 0-0 draw marked the second consecutive World Cup game in Los Angeles where supporters displayed the banned flag, which is seen as a sign of resistance to Iran’s current government and is prohibited by FIFA for its political associations.
The atmosphere was charged, with Iranian players applauding their fans after the match while many in the crowd chanted “Iran!” and waved the Lion-and-Sun flags. Before kickoff, the Iranian national anthem was loudly booed by many in attendance.
FIFA’s attempts to enforce the flag ban included a court ruling upholding the decision on Monday morning, with the judge stating that private venues can reasonably restrict speech and symbols deemed political or offensive. However, as LAist noted, many fans were still able to bring the Lion-and-Sun flag into the stadium. Security reportedly allowed some flags through, though others were stopped or had items confiscated, and at least one merchandise seller switched to advertising the banned flag due to demand.
After the match, the Iranian team left a handwritten note in their dressing room referencing “peace” and stating they would leave Los Angeles “with dignity.” Iran now heads to Seattle for their next group stage match against Egypt on Friday (June 26), an event already drawing attention due to its overlap with the city’s LGBTQ+ Pride celebrations and related complaints from both Middle Eastern countries involved.
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