FIFA president Sepp Blatter has hinted that national anthems could be scrapped before international games in an effort to help cut down on crowd trouble.
Blatter also said neutral venues might be a better idea for playoff matches than the current home and away set up.
Blatter’s comments follow last Wednesday’s World Cup play-off matches between Turkey and Switzerland which culminated in violence between both teams.
“I consider this whistling to be extremely disrespectful and of course disparaging to national pride,” Blatter told the Schweizer Illustrierte magazine.
“I am asking myself whether it even makes sense to play the national anthems. We will at least consider (not playing them).
“We could also insist that the teams shake hands after the match. We cannot have the situation where the winning team is unable to celebrate but must instead sprint off the pitch like thieves.”
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