FIFA has implemented a rule change at the World Cup after England manager Thomas Tuchel complained that photographers blocked his view of the national anthem before the team's opening match against Croatia. The new protocol allows coaching staff to reposition themselves to avoid obstructed views.
Tuchel's complaint after England vs Croatia
Before England's group game against Croatia, Tuchel was unable to see his players during 'God Save the King' because a large group of around 50 photographers crowded directly in front of the England dugout, barely a metre away. His line of sight was completely blocked.
After England's 4-2 victory, Tuchel raised the issue in his post-match press conference, pleading with FIFA to change the guidelines. He said: "It ruined a little bit of my experience today."
Dallas Stadium layout contributed to the problem
The issue was exacerbated by the layout of the host venue in Dallas, where the restricted distance between the pitch and the dugouts forced the media to stand directly in front of the coaches. FIFA's initial tournament guidelines instructed photographers to assemble in the eye-line of the benches, while team staff were required to remain in the dugout area.
FIFA's rule change implemented from next match
FIFA responded by tweaking the matchday protocol for all subsequent World Cup matches, starting with the group game between Czechia and South Africa. The change allows managers and their coaching staff to stand to either the left or right of the media scrum to keep their view clear.
Photographers were also regrouped into a closer bundle and positioned near the halfway line to further assist. Each team must now communicate their coaching staff positioning preferences during standard pre-match operational meetings.
