World Cup: FIFA introduces new pre-match ceremony for squad players

FIFA has announced a revised pre-match ceremony for the 2026 World Cup: all players on the matchday squad, not just the starting eleven, will walk onto the pitch through a dedicated arch alongside youth escorts and gather around the center circle for the national anthems. Large national flag banners will be displayed on both sides. FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the change aims to create a moment of unity, pride, and emotion. The 48-team tournament will be held from June 11 to July 19, 2026, in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.