Federation Square in Melbourne will not show next month’s World Cup matches in a public screening arrangement, after organisers cite concerns about fan behaviour at previous public watch events. Multiple Australian outlets report that the venue is effectively ending World Cup live screenings at Fed Square for the first time in more than two decades. Federation Square says the decision follows what it describes as “unacceptable and damaging” behaviour by a few fans, pointing to issues seen at earlier public viewings. Fans who typically watch together in the precinct react with anger, criticising the ban and saying they are being punished for actions they did not take. Al Jazeera also reports that the decision is linked to poor behaviour at prior public watch parties in 2023. Across the coverage, the core elements remain consistent: Fed Square will not screen the tournament, the stated reason is safety and conduct concerns tied to earlier crowds, and the announcement triggers public backlash among Socceroos supporters who were expecting to watch the games in the public square.