England supporters have been warned they could be ejected from US stadiums if they persist in singing an anti-Sir Keir Starmer chant during the World Cup. Fans are preparing to cheer on Thomas Tuchel's side as they begin their campaign in North America on Wednesday against Croatia at 9pm BST.
Group Stage Fixtures
Tuchel's squad is in Group L, with matches against Ghana and Panama following the opener in Texas. The Three Lions are desperate to secure their first major honour since the historic 1966 World Cup victory.
Starmer Chant Controversy
One figure likely to face the brunt of England fans' frustration in North America is UK Prime Minister Starmer. Large sections of travelling supporters were heard chanting 'Keir Starmer's a w****r' during England's second pre-tournament friendly in Orlando last week. The chant has reportedly been ringing out in bars and pubs across Dallas ahead of the Croatia clash, according to the Daily Mail.
The anti-Prime Minister song, sung to the tune of 'Seven Nation Army' by The White Stripes, has become increasingly prevalent at England matches in recent months as Starmer continues to struggle with popularity back home.
FIFA Regulations
However, Three Lions supporters risk punishment from FIFA. The football governing body enforces rules designed to keep matches free from political interference, banning banners, flags, and clothing considered offensive, discriminatory, or political in nature. Its stadium code of conduct also cautions fans against using 'offensive language or gestures'.
Meanwhile, the Daily Mail reports that a number of supporters whose St George's crosses feature images of British servicemen have been denied permission to display them at venues. This is understood to be due to the presence of a soldier's silhouette holding a rifle, which falls foul of FIFA's regulations.
FA Discussions
The FA has reportedly been in discussions with FIFA in a bid to reach a resolution ahead of England's opening fixture. Fans have been advised they are welcome to bring their flags to the stadium, but should be prepared for stewards to turn them away at the gates. The prospect leaves those affected in an unenviable position.
Many supporters have forked out hundreds of pounds on specially-made flags and would be forced to find somewhere safe to store them at short notice, or risk missing the match entirely. Flags bearing images of poppies are, however, permitted.
An FA spokesperson told the Mail: "We have advised our fans that FIFA can prevent flags with sensitive or political content entering the stadiums. Our team are on hand at the ground to help review flags if needed to avoid any problems occurring."
