Source: REUTERS/KATIE STRATMAN
[Saba Sports News] According to British media reports, FIFA has requested all participants at the Club World Cup to hide their credentials to prevent the possibility of forged documents from being created if exposed on television screens. Following Bayern Munich’s 10-0 victory over Auckland City, players including England captain Harry Kane were instructed by FIFA officials to remove or flip their credentials. When inquired about the reason, they were told that this was done to avoid malicious exploitation of the credential information. It is reported that the QR code on the credentials allows players, coaches, and support staff to pass through security and access key areas such as locker rooms, mixed zones, and VIP boxes at various venues. FIFA fears that if these credentials are clearly visible during TV broadcasts or interviews on social media, the QR code might be filmed and replicated to create fake documents, allowing unauthorized individuals to breach security and enter restricted areas. This rule will be strictly enforced at every match. The instruction for the credentials not to be exposed applies equally to media personnel covering the event; reporters and broadcasters are prohibited from displaying their Club World Cup credentials on social media or during TV appearances.