FIFA has announced a significant change to the pre-match protocol that will be introduced throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking one of the biggest ceremonial overhauls in the tournament's modern history. The new format will make its debut on June 11 at the legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, where hosts Mexico will face South Africa in the opening match of the tournament.

Under the revised protocol, teams will no longer line up in a traditional straight formation facing the main stand during the national anthems. Instead, FIFA will introduce a circular presentation designed to create a more immersive experience for supporters across every section of the stadium.

During the anthem ceremony, all players listed on the official match sheet — including substitutes — will gather together inside the centre circle. The move is intended to showcase the entire squad rather than just the starting XI and strengthen the connection between players and fans.

Teams, accompanied by child mascots, will enter the pitch through specially branded tournament arches positioned on the side of the field closest to their dressing rooms, streamlining the pre-match process while enhancing the visual presentation.

Adding to the spectacle, giant curved banners in the colours of each nation's flag will be unfurled behind both goals. Stadium organisers will also deploy thousands of handheld flags, a central banner inside the centre circle and updated FIFA branding throughout the venue to create a more vibrant atmosphere before kick-off.

Fan-centric pre-match ceremony to debut at @FIFAWorldCup 2026

FIFA has unveiled a bold new vision for pre-match ceremonies at the FIFA World Cup 2026 designed to deepen the connection between players and fans while elevating a moment already rich with anticipation:

— FIFA (@FIFAcom) June 4, 2026