FIFA allows in World Cup stadiums certain marks of support for protesters in Iran, such as the slogan “Women, life, freedom” or portraits of Mahsa Amini, whose death triggered this protest movement.
“FIFA allows messages promoting human rights and FIFA’s position is that Women, Life, Freedom or the name or likeness of Mahsa Amini are permitted in stadiums,” is it written in a document consulted by AFP. “Conversely, in accordance with FIFA’s rules on prohibited items for spectators, items bearing political, insulting or discriminatory messages are prohibited. This also applies to flags of non-official countries, which can be considered as a political message”writes the governing body of world football.
“For Iran’s upcoming matches, additional measures will be put in place with the objective of creating a safe and secure environment.”
On Friday, the security services of the Ahmad bin Ali stadium confiscated from a man his Iranian flag stamped with the emblematic words of the revolt, “Women, Life, Freedom”: “FIFA is aware of several incidents that occurred during the first week of the tournament during Iran’s matches. FIFA has taken steps to investigate these incidents […] For Iran’s upcoming matches in this World Cup, additional measures will be put in place with the aim of creating a safe and secure environment for all fans in attendance. »