Japanese fan waves Rising Sun flag at World Cup qualifier; professor to report to FIFA

A Japanese fan's display of a Rising Sun flag during a 2026 World Cup qualifier match in Mexico has sparked controversy. The flag was seen at the game between Japan and Tunisia in Monterrey, Mexico, on June 21.

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The Rising Sun flag is a flag that Japan prominently displayed when invading various Asian countries, including the Pacific War, and it symbolizes Japan's militarism and imperialism.

Professor Seo Kyoung-duk of Sungshin Women's University condemned the act on Facebook, stating that the Rising Sun flag symbolizes Japanese militarism and imperialism, used during Japan's invasions of Asian countries. He called its use at a World Cup match "truly foolish" and a reminder of war's horrors for Asian football fans.

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Using the Rising Sun flag as a World Cup cheering tool is truly a foolish act.

Seo plans to report the incident to FIFA before Japan's next match, seeking to prevent recurrence. He recalled that during the 2022 Qatar World Cup, stadium security intervened when Japanese fans displayed the flag. Japanese media outlet Football Channel also covered the event, noting that while Japan secured a significant victory on the field, Korean media focused on the controversy surrounding the flag in the stands.

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It can be seen as an act that reminds Asian football fans of the horrors of war.