FIFA, Gianni Infantino, World Cup teams
4 June 2026
FIFA has changed the World Cup pre-match ceremony so substitutes will join starters in the centre circle during national anthems. The new format will also include larger flag banners and a dedicated player entrance arch.
FIFA says the change is designed to give every fan a clearer stadium view of the ceremony. Later rounds may add coloured smoke and pyrotechnics before matches, with traditional handshakes and team photos still following the anthems.