Wrestler masks will be banned at 2022 Qatar World Cup
One of the most popular accessories used by Mexico fans will not be allowed in the stands at the next World Cup.
The countdown to Qatar World Cup 2022 has begun and unlike previous editions of the tournament, there will be a series of restrictions for fans travelling to the Middle East. One of them is the ban on wrestler masks, which cannot be worn by fans attending games during the tournament.
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In an interview with ESPN, Alfonso Zegbe, Executive Director for Strategy and Public Diplomacy at Mexico’s Foreign Affairs Bureau, announced that the facial accessories will not be allowed and cannot be used by fans in Qatar. Zegbe explained that masks will prohibited during matches because the tournament will be taking place in a region where such behaviour is viewed in a different way.
“The latest update from the Organizing Committee is that masks will not be allowed. I have to confess that we brought some fighter masks to ask if they could be used and they told us that they did not see it, let’s not forget that we are in a complex region, it is the Middle East. The hosts have made it clear what can and cannot be done, and masks are prohibited,” he explained. “Anyone taking masks out there will be told that they can’t use them. Coordination between us is important; we have explained that it is the Mexican way of getting behind the team. It’s possible that security won’t say anything - on the other hand, they may politely ask fans to take them off, that is why it is recommended not to wear masks”.
The World Cup will begin on 20 November with the inaugural game between Qatar and Ecuador. Mexico’s campaign begins the following day against Poland. After their opening group game, Gerardo Martino’s side will face Argentina and then Saudi Arabia.