FIFA to change photographer placement after Tuchel's request

FIFA has agreed to modify photographer placement during national anthems after a request from England manager Thomas Tuchel. The adjustment will keep photographers along the pitch but cluster them more tightly, while coaches and technical staff may stand left or right of the touchline to retain visibility of their players.

After England’s first duel with Croatia, Tuchel complained that a wall of fifty photographers blocked his view of the team. He said he could not see his players during the anthem.

“Verander alsjeblieft de positie van de fotografen tijdens het volkslied, want ik kon mijn team niet zien,” Tuchel said after the Croatia match. He emphasized his frustration with the photographer arrangement.

Tuchel had already appealed to FIFA before the match. The post‑match outcome proved his point.

“Ik smeek de FIFA om de positie van fotografen tijdens de volksliederen te veranderen. Het verpestte de ervaring een beetje,” he added after the game. The quote underscored his desire for a clearer view.

FIFA responded that photographers will retain their current location along the field but will be positioned closer together. Additionally, coaches and members of the technical staff will be allowed to place themselves slightly left or right of the sideline during the anthem. This change aims to prevent them from being completely hidden by the photographers.