Julian Nagelsmann slams FIFA anthem photography rule

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann criticised FIFA's new anthem protocol that places photographers between staff and players, saying the lenses are so close they could photograph the hairs in his nose. His remarks came after Germany secured a 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast in the World Cup group stage. Thomas Tuchel, the German national team coach, also voiced anger at the same protocol. He complained that the photographers blocked his view of the players during the anthem, preventing him from encouraging them. During national anthems, photographers stand between the coaching staff and the squad, creating a visual barrier. This arrangement limits the opportunity for coaches to interact with their players before the match begins. Nagelsmann said, "Here the photographers are so close that I feel their huge lenses even photograph the hairs in my nose from a centimetre away." He emphasized that the proximity of the cameras feels intrusive to the coaching staff.

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He added that he does not object to his players standing around the centre spot during the anthem. The concern remains solely about the photographers' placement, not the players' positions. Nagelsmann delivered his comments at a press conference following the 2-1 win over Ivory Coast. The timing linked his criticism to the recent match experience.

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FIFA announced that the protocol will be adjusted to give coaches a clear view of their players. Photographers will no longer sit directly in front of the coaches during the anthem. The revised arrangement is intended to resolve the visual obstruction reported by staff. Officials expect the change to improve pre‑match communication between coaches and squads.