FIFA to ban pre-revolution Iranian flag from World Cup

FIFA is set to ban the waving of the pre-Islamic Revolution flag of Iran at World Cup games, sparking outrage among the Iranian opposition and diaspora.

The old flag, featuring the lion and sun emblem, has long served as the symbol of Iran’s deposed monarchy and, since 1979, has served as the symbol of Iranians opposed to the current government. Eager to avoid political clashes, the Athletic reported that FIFA was going to ban the flag from World Cup games, a charge the organization did little to refute.