Why Saudi Arabia’s flag is not placed on the ground: the reason explained

In the opening round of the 2026 World Cup group stage, Saudi Arabia faced Uruguay, and the match featured an unusual moment involving the Saudi flag.

Details: Before kick-off, Saudi Arabia’s flag was not placed on the ground as is customary for the other participating teams. The reason is that the Saudi flag must always be kept raised because it bears the Shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith and the holiest phrase in Islam.

As a mark of respect for its religious significance, the flag must not come into contact with the ground or water.

Meanwhile, the officiating team for the Saudi Arabia–Uruguay match took to the pitch wearing pink kits. The design was chosen as a tribute to the host city of Miami, drawing inspiration from the area’s historic flamingo population, its iconic pink sunsets, and its famous pink Art Deco architecture.

As a reminder: Uruguay faced Saudi Arabia in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the South American side’s goalkeeper etched his name into the history books.