The World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico which will open in a week will bring its share of changes. This is particularly the case for the cooling break, which will be systematized, even if the temperatures do not require a cool break as was the case on Thursday during the preparation match against Ivory Coast.
Another novelty will also occur in the pre-match protocol, particularly concerning the national anthems. From now on, players will no longer sit in line in front of the official stand. They will in fact take place around the central circle.
And the holders will no longer be the only players concerned. While they have until now listened to the anthems in front of the sidelines, alongside other members of the staff, the substitutes will also sit with their teammates around the central circle to sing their national anthem.
“A redesigned 360-degree ceremony”
“Having all players and referees facing each other in the center of the field during the national anthems will create a moment of unity, pride and emotion that will truly belong to the teams and everyone in the stadium. The World Cup concerns every player and every fan, and this new pre-match ceremony reflects that.”Gianni Infantino said in a message relayed on social networks.
At the end of these anthems, the pre-match protocol will resume as usual with the exchange of handshakes, team photos and the drawing of lots carried out by the referee with the captains.
“In addition, we will have a redesigned 360-degree ceremony that will engage every fan in the stadium, including national flag-colored banners and on-field elements oriented to create a unique, immersive experience from every seat, as well as new visual elements – from player entrance arches to hand-held flags – intended to heighten the sense of anticipation, with enhanced features for select matches,” added the FIFA president in a press release.
