The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has said it will ban England fans in Qatar during upcoming World Cup matches, who wear “Crusader” kits that raise “cultural sensitivity” in this Muslim country.
England fans wore historically-era clothing, plastic helmets and shields, known as the Crusaders costumes, at their side’s match with Iran on Monday, which sparked controversy and prompted the federation to take strict measures against clothing that elevates cultural sensitivities.
A FIFA spokesman said: “These garments could be seen in an Arab or Middle Eastern context as offensive, which is why they are not allowed in stadiums.”
Remembering the crusades reminds Arab countries of a painful history of violent conquest by Christians who tried to take over Jerusalem and the neighboring areas that were under Islamic rule in the 11th and 13th centuries.
And clips spread on social networks that were supposed to prevent the entry of fans wearing crusader costumes, and Al-Hurra could not confirm their authenticity.
Qatari security prevents England fans from entering stadiums wearing clothes that refer to England’s crusades against Muslims. pic.twitter.com/ND3wsxnyEM
-Ahmad Mas (@a7maad_mas) November 24, 2022
Some Welsh fans had already been ordered to remove their rainbow hats in support of the LGBT community during their team’s first match, against the United States, earlier this week.
Welsh football authorities said on Thursday FIFA had assured them fans wearing caps and rainbow flags would be allowed into the stadium for their side’s match against Iran on Friday, which Wales lost by a two-goal against Wales. ‘Iran.
