A Cumbrian MP has challenged FIFA’s ban of flags featuring Barrow AFC’s crest.
A group of football fans supporting England at the World Cup were told they could not display the England flag, which had their home team’s badge on because it had a submarine on it.
The supporters included the club badge and a silhouette of a submarine on the flag.
But competition organiser FIFA said military or weaponry images were not allowed inside the stadiums.
Now, Michelle Scrogham, MP for Barrow and Furness, has tabled an Early Day Motion in the House of Commons challenging FIFA’s decision.
The motion, co-signed by Barrow-born Labour MPs Paul Foster (South Ribble) and Cat Smith (Lancaster and Wyre) raises concerns over that decision.
The Parliamentary motion highlights that the submarine is a longstanding emblem of Barrow, reflecting the town’s proud shipbuilding heritage and its globally recognised role in designing and constructing submarines for the Royal Navy.
The Early Day Motion says that the crest represents local identity, community pride and industrial heritage, rather than any political message or endorsement of conflict.
It also pays tribute to generations of workers, engineers, apprentices, and skilled tradespeople whose contribution has shaped the town’s character and prosperity.
Mrs Scrogham said: “Barrow AFC’s crest is a proud symbol of our town’s identity, history, and achievements.
“The submarine is not a political statement it reflects the generations of skilled workers who have built a world-class industry here in Barrow-in-Furness. FIFA’s decision to ban supporters from displaying this emblem at the World Cup is deeply disappointing and misunderstands its true meaning.
“I am urging FIFA to reconsider, engage with the club and its fans, and adopt a more proportionate approach that respects the cultural and historical significance of community symbols while ensuring football remains welcoming to all.”
The motion calls on FIFA to take a balanced and proportionate approach that recognises the importance of local heritage and community emblems, while upholding its commitment to inclusivity within the global game.
