[Saba Sports News] According to British media, the Iranian national team arrived in Tijuana, Mexico last Sunday with #168 badges pinned to the lapels of their dark blue suits. The number stands for the number of children who lost their lives at a primary school on February 28, 2026, the first day of the US-Iran clashes. Media outlets warn that the team could face penalties if the players wear the badges during matches. The squad departed their training camp in Antalya, Turkey last Saturday afternoon without the badges. They put them on their suit lapels during a refuelling stop in Spain. The badges were clearly visible as the team headed to their hotel after landing in Mexico. FIFA’s kit regulations ban all political, religious or personal slogans, statements and imagery. Violators, including players and officials in the technical area, may be penalised by tournament authorities or FIFA. Team head coach Amir Ghalenoei will also be liable to punishment if he wears the badge on the sidelines.
The editor believes that the definition of political violations remains somewhat ambiguous. Nevertheless, the rules clearly prohibit any slogans, statements or imagery linked to individuals or specific political acts and incidents.