FIFA Bans Opposition Symbol While Shielding Iran Team From Expulsion

FIFA prohibited pre-revolutionary lion-and-sun flags—the emblem of Iran's democratic opposition—from stadiums hosting Iran's World Cup matches, yet declined to expel the team despite calls from former players citing the regime's human rights record. The dual stance satisfies neither side. Critics argue FIFA has granted deference to Tehran while suppressing dissent, a position the organization has not publicly reconciled.