Historic Persian symbols represent centuries of culture, heritage, and identity for millions of Persians and Iranians around the world. The Lion and Sun emblem, in particular, long predates modern political movements and remains an important cultural and historical symbol for many within the global Persian community.

At recent FIFA events, ancient Persian emblems have been treated as prohibited political expressions. For many Persians worldwide, this feels unfair and exclusionary. Displaying historic cultural symbols is not an act of aggression or division — it is a peaceful expression of heritage, identity, and connection to history.

International sporting events are meant to celebrate diversity, unity, and cultural representation. Restricting historic Persian symbols while other cultural expressions are openly visible creates concern about inconsistent standards and unequal treatment.

We respectfully call on FIFA to clarify and reconsider its policies regarding historic Persian symbols and to ensure that all communities are able to express their cultural identity respectfully and fairly.