Protesters and magazines created Snapchat filters like "Pride Nation" that digitally transformed any flag into a rainbow flag via AR, allowing fans to show solidarity safely.
In 2020, officials assured that rainbow flags would be permitted in stadiums to comply with FIFA's inclusion policies.
In one instance, a Brazilian journalist had his phone seized after authorities mistook the rainbow on his state flag (Pernambuco) for an LGBTQ+ symbol. Viral Misinformation Incidents and Confiscations By April 2022, a senior
An infographic titled "Qatar Welcomes You!" went viral, claiming official bans on homosexuality, alcohol, and dating. Fact-checkers and Qatari officials confirmed this image was fake and created by a citizens' group, not the government. Protest and Workarounds
Homosexuality remains illegal in Qatar, and Qatari authorities emphasized that while visitors are welcome, they should respect the country's religious and cultural traditions. Incidents and Confiscations Incidents and Confiscations By April 2022
By April 2022, a senior security official suggested that rainbow flags might be confiscated as a "safety measure" to protect fans from potential anti-LGBTQ+ altercations with other spectators.
During the Portugal vs. Uruguay match, a protester ran onto the pitch carrying a rainbow flag; he was subsequently banned from attending further matches. claiming official bans on homosexuality
There were numerous reports of security personnel seizing rainbow-colored bucket hats from Welsh fans and rainbow-themed clothing from journalists.
