FIFA has introduced significant changes to the ‘Player of the Match’ ceremony and trophy at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which respects the religious beliefs and cultural sensitivities of Muslim players.
Under the new policy, an alcohol-free backdrop and a special trophy are offered to selected players.
While Morocco’s Ismail Sabari was awarded ‘Man of the Match’ for scoring the fastest first goal of the tournament against Scotland.
Alcohol logo removed from Muslim footballers’ World Cup player’s trophy out of respect for their faith 👊 pic.twitter.com/7NxZuaDhTR
– ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) June 25, 2026
The beer brand ad that is usually featured during the award ceremony has been removed and replaced with a neutral ‘Player of the Match’ design and FIFA World Cup branding.
According to reports, Imam Ashur of Egypt, Ali Alwan of Jordan, Ramin Rezain of Iran, goalkeeper of Qatar Mahmoud Abu Nada and Yann Diomande of Ivory Coast were also awarded with the same award.
According to a FIFA spokesperson, an anonymous award can be made available at the request of a selected player.
The same policy applies to players who are under the legal drinking age.
It is worth remembering that during the 2018 World Cup, Egypt’s goalkeeper Muhamed El-Shenawi also attracted international attention for refusing to accept the player of the match award related to alcohol sponsorship.
