Lineker condemns FIFA for blocking France's black armband tribute to Deschamps' mother

Gary Lineker has publicly condemned FIFA for preventing France from wearing black armbands during their 4-1 World Cup group-stage victory over Norway on Friday, after manager Didier Deschamps’ mother passed away last week.

Deschamps was absent from the match at the tournament in North America to attend his mother’s funeral, with assistant Guy Stephan taking charge in his place. Norway offered a gesture of condolence before kick-off, presenting Stephan with a bouquet of flowers, but FIFA declined France’s request to wear black armbands as a mark of respect.

Lineker, who is covering the tournament for The Rest Is Football, voiced his frustration in an interview with L’Équipe. “The loss of his mother is a tragedy,” he said. “It’s truly sad, and I still can’t believe FIFA didn’t allow the players to wear black armbands.”

On the pitch, France were imperious under Stephan’s stewardship. Ousmane Dembélé scored a hat-trick, while Désiré Doué added a fourth to complete a commanding win. Thelo Aasgaard pulled one back for Norway in the first half, but it proved little more than a consolation.

The result confirmed France as winners of Group I, having also beaten Senegal 3-1 in their opener and Iraq 3-0 in their second fixture. They advance to the round of 32 in first place and will face Sweden on Tuesday, 30 June.