The World Cup 2026 will feature a brand-new, “fan-centric” national anthem ceremony, following a major pre-match ritual overhaul revealed by FIFA ahead of next week’s highly anticipated kick-off.
From now on, every player selected in the matchday squad—not just the starting line-ups—will be fully involved. This change allows substitutes to step into the spotlight and group together around the center circle banner before the national anthems are played.
FIFA believes this progressive step will maximize the pride and emotion for everyone representing their country on football’s biggest stage.
Gianni Infantino Explains FIFA’s New 360-Degree Pre-Match Concept
Commenting on the updates, FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated: “As the FIFA World Cup grows, we continue to innovate the way the game is experienced. The pre-match ceremonies at the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be no different.
“Having all players and referees face each other in the center circle during the national anthems will create a moment of unity, pride, and emotion that truly belongs to the teams and to everyone in the stadium,” Infantino added.
“In addition, we will have a redesigned 360-degree ceremony which engages every fan in the stadium. This includes country flag banners and on-pitch elements oriented to create a unique, immersive experience from every seat, as well as new visual elements—from player entry arches to handheld flags—poised to heighten the sense of anticipation, with enhanced features for selected matches.”
NFL-Style Flag Displays and Traditional Rituals Maintained
Under this new concept, each participating nation will be represented by extra-large country flag banners covering almost half the pitch, mirroring how NFL matches have traditionally operated with the US flag in recent years.
The traditional pre-match rituals will immediately follow the anthems. FIFA confirmed that the standard handshakes and official team photos of the starting line-ups will be fully retained, followed by the captains meeting for the customary coin toss.
