A group of England supporters attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been told they cannot display their flag inside stadiums because it features the silhouette of a submarine, with FIFA classifying the image as military-related.
The supporters, who are from Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, had submitted their St George’s Cross for approval ahead of England’s upcoming Group L match against Ghana. The flag features the name and crest of Barrow AFC alongside a submarine silhouette, reflecting the town’s long-standing association with submarine and shipbuilding industries.
However, FIFA rejected the application, stating that the design violated tournament regulations prohibiting imagery linked to weapons or military equipment.
“The application was rejected because the item includes imagery of weapons or military (submarine),” FIFA said in its response to the supporters. These are not permitted under FIFA policy. We would be happy to approve if you were willing and able to submit again with the imagery covered up.”
The decision has drawn criticism from supporters, who argue that the submarine symbol represents local heritage rather than military activity.
Barrow supporter John Little described the ruling as excessive. “I couldn’t believe it really. It’s a little bit harsh that they’ve done it for something like that,” he said. “I could understand guns and knives and what have you, but not a submarine. It’s not like you can go down to the local Walmart and buy a submarine, is it?” He added that many people had reacted with disbelief to the decision. “People are just saying how ridiculous it is that they’re not allowing the flag.”
Despite their frustration, the supporters have indicated they will follow FIFA’s instructions by covering the submarine image and resubmitting the flag for approval. The controversy comes amid increased scrutiny of flags and banners at the World Cup. FIFA has also restricted the display of certain politically sensitive symbols, including flags used by some Iranian supporters.
In addition, tournament regulations prohibit fans from draping flags over LED advertising boards inside stadiums, a rule that led to several England supporters being asked to remove their banners during the Three Lions’ opening 4-2 victory over Croatia.
FIFA has defended the restrictions on safety and security grounds. “Small flags, banners and posters made of a fire-resistant material are allowed in the stadium,” the governing body said. “Larger flags, banners, posters or instruments must be approved in advance.” England will face Ghana in their second Group L fixture in Boston, seeking to build on their winning start to the tournament.