World Cup 2026: FIFA revises anthem protocol after Tuchel complaint

The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) will update its pre-match protocol for the 2026 World Cup, reorganizing the position of photographers during the national anthems. From now on, technical staff members, including head coaches, will have a direct line of sight to their players during this symbolic moment.

This decision comes after a notable intervention by England manager Thomas Tuchel, who criticized what he saw as a restrictive setup during a recent match. The former PSG coach complained that he was unable to see his players during the anthem, blocked by a row of photographers standing too close to the pitch.

A request heard by FIFA

According to information reported by RMC, FIFA decided to act swiftly following this feedback. A new arrangement will be implemented in the coming hours: photographers will be repositioned to clear the line of sight between coaches and their teams.

Tuchel described a "spoiled" experience

In his statements, Thomas Tuchel recounted a striking but frustrating scene:

"I was facing a wall of 50 photographers less than a meter away, I couldn’t see a single player. It somewhat spoiled my experience."

This change is intended to preserve the emotional intensity of the national anthem, considered a key moment in the pre-match ritual at the World Cup, while maintaining suitable working conditions for the media.

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.