Iranian fans defy FIFA ban, display pre-revolutionary flag at World Cup match

Iranian football fans defied FIFA regulations by displaying the pre-revolutionary "Lion and Sun" flag during Iran's opening World Cup match against New Zealand in Los Angeles. The flag, used before the 1979 Islamic Revolution, is associated with opposition movements in the Iranian diaspora. FIFA prohibits political symbols at official tournament venues, but images and videos from the match showed supporters openly waving the banned flag.

The incident occurred amid protests and political demonstrations outside the stadium. Some Iranian-American protesters opposed the Iranian government while others supported the national team, creating a highly charged environment. The match ended in a 2-2 draw.