Respecting Muslim Players, FIFA Removes Alcoholic Drink Logo from Special Trophy for 2026 World Cup
FIFA made an important change in the Player of the Match (POTM) award at the 2026 World Cup by providing trophies and backgrounds without the logo of an alcoholic beverage sponsor. This policy is a form of respect for players' beliefs, especially Muslim players who have religious principles regarding alcohol.
Besides Muslim players, this rule also applies to players under 21 and athletes who refuse association with certain sponsors, like Kylian Mbappé who previously avoided promoting alcoholic products. Players like Johan Manzambi and Michael Olise also received the alcohol-free logo format.
Mohamed Salah came into the spotlight after receiving the award with a clean background without a beer logo. Other players like Ramin Rezaeian, Emam Ashour, Ali Olwan, and Ismael Saibari got similar treatment. Players without sponsor restrictions still use the standard format.
This move is seen as a symbol that the sports world can respect cultural, religious, and personal player principles amidst the commercialization of global football.
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