On June 4, FIFA announced a new concept regarding the ceremonies prior to the 2026 World Cup matches, where highlighted the so-called “immersive experiences.”
“During the competition, a new immersive approach will be applied that will transform the stadium into a shared stage where fans and teams will experience a very special moment with the official World Cup album. FIFA 2026 as a backdrop“, FIFA stated recently.
“For this, large flags of the contending countries and elements strategically located on the playing field to engage audiences in an authentic and meaningful way“he added.
Within this new modality of presenting the ceremonies, FIFA will include the participation of the teams complete during the national anthems of the opposing teams.
“During the national anthems, all players from both teams – not just the starting eleven – will form a circle around the banner located in the center of the field, so that everyone participates in that moment of pride and excitement in representing your country on football’s biggest stage“explained FIFA.
The sports entity indicated that, as the competition progresses, new elements will be implemented for the ceremonies, such as the use of colored smoke or pyrotechnics.
“As the FIFA World Cup grows, we continue to innovate in the way we experience football. The union of footballers and referees in the center circle during the anthems will generate a moment of brotherhood, pride and excitement for the teams and those attending the match“said Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA.