Sacred words on the flag

FIFA, an experienced organization, has encountered flag-related issues before, notably during the 1994 World Cup held in the United States. McDonald's, a major sponsor, enthusiastically promoted the tournament. As part of their campaign, they decorated paper bags used for takeaway food with the flags of the 24 participating nations.

Saudi Arabia, a participant in that World Cup, took issue with the bags. Its leaders were dismayed by the prospect of the nation's flag being treated with disrespect, potentially ending up soiled or in trash bins. The fast-food chain had produced two million bags for this campaign, intended for use in 520 restaurants across Great Britain.

The Saudi Arabian ambassador in London politely requested McDonald's to withdraw the bags from circulation. The company complied, but many bags had already reached customers, making a complete recall impossible. Replacing the flag-adorned bags across all restaurants instantaneously also proved difficult.

While the bags were ultimately recalled, their final disposition remains unclear. They could not be destroyed due to the presence of the flags. It is rumored that all the bags were collected and transported to a warehouse, where they may still be stored.