The world governing body for soccer is facing a legal threat in the United States after planning to prohibit the pre-revolutionary Iranian 'Lion and Sun' flag from stadiums during the 2026 World Cup in North America. The Institute for Voices of Liberty has warned it will file suit in California courts if the policy is enforced, arguing that banning the flag would violate constitutional protections of free expression. The organization says it has not received a response after formally demanding written assurances that the flag will be permitted.

The governing body has issued guidance barring political symbols at venues and is expected to classify the pre-revolutionary flag as political in nature. While the current official flag of the Islamic Republic of Iran would be allowed as the recognized emblem of a member federation, the older flag, widely used by members of the Iranian diaspora as a symbol of protest and identity, would be excluded.

The dispute has sparked strong reactions among Iranian communities in the United States, particularly on the West Coast where Iran will play group matches. Critics argue that permitting the current state flag while banning the Lion and Sun emblem amounts to viewpoint discrimination. Political commentators and public figures have also weighed in, calling the proposed ban an affront to free speech and national identity.

The controversy unfolds amid broader political tensions surrounding Iran's participation in the tournament and heightened sensitivities following recent conflict in the Middle East. The governing body has declined to comment publicly, while activists say they are prepared to pursue all available legal remedies if the restriction is not reversed.