What you’re probably seeing is FIFA’s new pre-match ceremony for the World Cup: players from both teams, including substitutes, gather around the center circle for the national anthems instead of standing in the old side-line format. FIFA says the idea is to make the moment more fan-centric, with bigger flags, a dedicated entrance arch, and a more immersive stadium presentation.

What happens

  • The full matchday squads come onto the pitch before kickoff.
  • Both teams gather near the center circle for the anthems.
  • After that, the usual rituals follow: handshakes, team photos, and the coin toss.

Why it changed

FIFA says the redesign is meant to create a stronger connection between players and fans and make the pregame moment feel more unified and dramatic. Reports about the 2026 tournament describe it as part ceremony, part spectacle, with a more cinematic kickoff experience.

Quick read

So if you saw a big organized walkout, flags on the pitch, and everyone standing together before the anthem, that’s the new World Cup pre-match ceremony.