EAGLED-eyed fans noticed how Saudi Arabia’s flag was lifted off the ground before their opening World Cup fixture against Uruguay on Monday night.
According to broadcaster Stadium Astro, Saudi Arabia’s flag is the only flag of the 48 competing World Cup nations that is not allowed to touch the ground.
Uruguay’s flag was also lifted off the ground to provide balance during the ceremony.
Strict prohibitions are in place regarding the use of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s flag.
It is forbidden to display a Saudi Arabia flag that is “faded in colour or in poor condition”, according to a Gulf News article from 2024.
Flags that are old or unfit for display must be destroyed by the person or people responsible, ensuring they are never reused or disrespected.
The same article says it is ‘strictly forbidden’ to lower the Kingdom’s national flag or the flag of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques ‘in a manner that would allow them to touch the ground, water, or any surface below’.
Saudi Arabia drew 1-1 with Uruguay in their opening Group H fixture. Al Nassr’s Abdulelah Al-Amri gave Saudi the lead shortly before half-time, but Georgios Donis’ side were denied two precious points when Maxi Araujo equalised late on.
Saudi Arabia face pre-tournament favourites Spain in their next match on June 21 before going head-to-head with Cape Verde, who held La Roja to an unexpected goalless draw on Monday, five days later.
