World Cup
French fans show Xavier Dupont de Ligonnès banner in Philadelphia
French supporters in Philadelphia displayed a banner featuring the portrait of fugitive Xavier Dupont de Ligonnès on Monday ahead of the 2026 World Cup match between France (Les Bleus) and Iraq at 11 p.m., with the banner asking “have you seen this guy?” and prompting jokes that the suspect may be living in the United States.
The banner was unfurled outside the stadium where the French national team, known as Les Bleus, will meet Iraq. Spectators captured the image and shared it on social media, drawing immediate attention.
The design shows a French flag with the face of Xavier Dupont de Ligonnès, France’s most infamous fugitive, superimposed in the centre. Below the portrait, the banner poses the question “have you seen this guy?” in bold lettering.
Online discussions note that some conspiracy theories claim Xavier Dupont de Ligonnès, abbreviated XDDL, is currently residing somewhere in the United States. Fans appear to be riffing on those theories for comedic effect.
The banner earned a perfect rating on an informal French humor scale, described as 10/10. Commentators highlighted the absurdity of linking a notorious criminal to a World Cup match.
Organisers have not confirmed whether the banner will be permitted inside the arena during the match. Authorities may remove it if deemed disruptive. If the banner is taken down, fans may recreate it on the streets surrounding the venue.