Iranian fans at the World Cup opener against New Zealand are reported to have carried and displayed pre-revolutionary, anti-regime flags despite restrictions. Multiple outlets say the flags were flown in defiance of FIFA’s stadium code of conduct and a court order that had been issued to limit such displays. The match ended in a 2–2 draw, and the reports describe the occasion as highly politicized, characterizing it as among the most politicized games of the tournament.
One outlet focuses on the legal and regulatory angle, stating that supporters defy both FIFA rules and a court directive by bringing the banned flags into the stadium. Another outlet emphasizes supporters’ choice of the earlier Iranian flag, presenting it as the specifically targeted symbol that FIFA had banned for the event.
Both accounts agree that the display occurred during the opener and that fans visibly challenged the restrictions related to flag use. The reporting does not provide additional details on how FIFA or officials respond, or any subsequent penalties, beyond the fact of the flag display and the stated court order.
