Saudi Arabia’s World Cup flag is kept off the ground for religious and legal reasons

FIFA’s new pre-match ceremony at the 2026 World Cup has changed how games begin. Before each match, giant national flags are laid on the pitch, both full squads of 26 players line up for the anthems, and the teams shake hands before kickoff. The format, designed to deepen the bond between players and fans, has already delayed several matches, including Brazil vs. Morocco by 4 minutes and 27 seconds, Haiti vs. Scotland by 2 minutes and 42 seconds, and Mexico vs. South Africa, which started at 22:06.

One detail stood out in Saudi Arabia’s opening match against Uruguay last night, when Saudi Arabia’s flag was raised above the ground instead of being placed directly on the field. Stadium Astro reported that Saudi Arabia’s is the only one of the 48 World Cup countries whose flag must not touch the ground. Uruguay’s flag was also lifted for visual balance during the ceremony.

Saudi flags are subject to strict rules. A 2024 Gulf News report said a Saudi flag may not be displayed if its color has faded or it is in poor condition. Old or unfit flags must be destroyed by those responsible so they are never reused or treated disrespectfully.

The same report said it is absolutely forbidden to lower the Saudi national flag, or the flag of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, in a way that would allow it to touch the ground, water, or any surface beneath it. For that reason, while other teams’ flags were spread directly on the grass at World Cup 2026 ceremonies, Saudi Arabia’s flag will continue to be held above ground whenever the team plays.