FIFA has changed World Cup 2026 protocol after England manager Thomas Tuchel complained that a cluster of photographers blocked his view of his squad during the national anthem. The new rule, effective from the Czech Republic versus South Africa match, allows managers to reposition themselves to the left or right of the press group to secure a clear line of sight.
How the controversy unfolded
The issue arose before England's 4-2 victory over Croatia at Dallas's AT&T Stadium. Approximately 50 credentialed press members gathered less than two feet from the dugout, creating an impenetrable human barrier. Tuchel could not see a single player singing 'God Save the King'.
Tuchel openly urged FIFA to rectify the setup, saying: "It ruined a little bit of my experience today." The spatial limitations at the Texas venue contributed to the overcrowding. Because the gap between the team benches and the playing field was so narrow, photographers had no choice but to stand directly in front of the staff.
Previous protocol and FIFA's response
Prior regulations mandated that media gather in front of technical areas during anthems, while managers and assistants were forbidden from leaving their designated dugout zones. Recognising that the flaw affected all participating nations, FIFA enacted a sweeping rule change for all remaining fixtures.
Media representatives must now assemble in a more compact formation shifted toward the centre circle. Squads are required to outline their preference during pre-game briefings. The new framework resolved the issue for England's later group matches against Panama and Ghana, and will do so against DR Congo in the round of 32.
