The International Football Federation (FIFA) implemented a review of its protocol regarding the positioning of photographers during the playing of national anthems in 2026 World Cup games, responding to a complaint expressed by England coach, Thomas Tuchel, who highlighted the emotional impact of not being able to observe his athletes in such a symbolic moment.
Tuchel reported that he was prevented from watching his athletes singing the English national anthem, “God Save The King”, moments before the 4-2 victory against Croatia, which took place last Wednesday (17) in Dallas.
After a detailed analysis of the feedback obtained during the initial round of the championship, football’s highest governing body opted to modify the procedure. With the new rule, photographers will be relocated to a more concentrated area, and technicians will have the freedom to choose which side to position themselves on.
At 52 years old, Thomas Tuchel makes his debut as a coach in a World Cup and shared his impressions of the incident shortly after the end of the match.
“I need to share something: I strongly ask that FIFA adjust the positioning of photographers during the national anthem, as I was unable to see my team at this moment,” he declared.
He added: “I was eagerly awaiting this moment. Today was something truly exceptional, and I found myself in front of a barrier of fifty photographers, just half a meter away, without being able to see any player. This compromised part of my experience.”
“It’s a very emotional situation. When I started my career as a coach, participating in an event of this magnitude was something that surpassed even my biggest dreams”, concluded the coach.
Information obtained indicated that the AT&T Stadium presented a particularity, as the field had to be raised by 1.2 meters to meet FIFA specifications for the championship. This change resulted in an even greater reduction in space near the reserve benches.
The new guideline has already come into force, being implemented in the match that ended in a 1-1 draw between the Czech Republic and South Africa, held on Thursday (18).