FIFA confirm major rule change days before World Cup starts

Every team will be affected.

For the first time in history, there will be 12 groups of four and a round of 32, instead of the traditional 32 teams and a round of 16.

A mammoth 104 games will be played across the three North American nations of the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Major changes are set to be implemented across the tournament, significantly shown with how national anthems are set to be handled.

So, how does it differ to usual?

National anthems have long been a tournament tradition. Some players famously belt it out as their respective nation's song is on the loud speaker, but this time it's different to before.

Usually, only the eleven players starting in the match sing the anthem on the pitch, with substitutes and coaches on the sidelines. This time though, all 26 players in each squad will be on the pitch as the anthems are played.

Both sides will stand alongside the officials, as part of a new "360-degree concept", which will also include huge banners of both nations' flags.

How the World Cup ceremony will look. Image credit: FIFA

FIFA president Gianni Infantino commented: "As the FIFA World Cup grows, we continue to innovate the way the game is experienced. The pre-match ceremonies will be no different.

"Having all players and referees face each other in the centre circle during the national anthems will create a moment of unity, pride and emotion that truly belongs to the teams and to everyone.

"In addition, we will have a redesigned 360-degree ceremony which engages every fan in the stadium, including country flag banners and on-pitch elements oriented to create a unique, immersive experience from every seat as well as new visual elements – from player entry arches to handheld flags – poised to heighten the sense of anticipation, with enhanced features for selected matches.

"The FIFA World Cup is about every player and every fan, and this new pre-match ceremony reflects that."