The “bisht” worn by Lionel Messi before lifting the World Cup trophy is at the heart of the controversy. During the awards ceremony following the final won by Argentina against France, Lionel Messi, captain, wore a kind of long black dress, which is actually called a “bisht”. It is, in fact, a traditional outfit in Qatar, given to him by the Emir of Qatar.
And if the scene had already provoked strong reactions on social networks, it should never have happened. Indeed, FIFA overstepped its own rules by letting Messi wear the “bisht” before lifting the trophy.
“At FIFA Finals, separate Victory Kits may only be worn on the pitch after the following official FIFA activities: the awards ceremony, official FIFA photos and official media appearances. Only then should the official clothing be removed,” states point 27.2 of the official FIFA World Cup kit regulations.