Representative: Afrizal Rosikhul Ilmi /
Red: Gilang Akbar Prambadi
An England national team fan wearing a replica crusader kit. (Drawing).
The sartorial replicas of the Crusades evoke painful past feelings in Arab lands.
REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, DOHA – FIFA has banned England fans from entering stadiums if they are wearing Crusader jerseys to watch the game World Cup 2022 Qatar. Several England fans were seen wearing crusader costumes including chain armour, plastic helmets and carrying toy guns during the game against Iran, sparking protests on social media.
In particular, the crusader costume is prohibited in Muslim countries for historical reasons. In Muslim countries, it’s like delving into the painful history of the violent invasions of Christians who tried to take Jerusalem and its surroundings under Islamic rule from the 11th to the 13th centuries.
England fans have worn similar outfits before at other sporting events. But when several people appeared in crossed uniforms during England’s World Cup game against Iran, they were turned away by officials, who were caught on video circulating on social media.
“England fans will be banned from the upcoming match in Qatae if they wear the Crusader’s replica shirt which is considered culturally insensitive in a Muslim country,” FIFA said as quoted by India Today on Saturday (26/11/2022 ).
“These shirts in an Arab or Middle Eastern context could be considered offensive, which is why they are not allowed in stadiums,” a FIFA spokesperson said.
The match between England and USA on Matchday 2 of Group B ended in a goalless draw. Meanwhile, in another party, Iran managed to beat Wales 2-0. With this result, Iran moved into second place, and just one point behind England.
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