2026 World Cup: FIFA announces change to national anthems protocol

FIFA announced a change to the national anthem protocol for the 2026 World Cup, hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Starting and substitute players will gather in the center circle before kickoff, facing each other around a banner. The world football governing body stated that this arrangement aims to involve the entire squad in the ceremonial moment, creating a sense of unity, pride, and emotion. The tournament will feature 48 teams and 104 matches, a first in the competition's history.