FC Barcelona are considering abandoning a ceremony that planned to celebrate seven players' involvement in Spain's 2026 FIFA World Cup victory as political tensions continue to rise amongst the club's fanbase.
Sunday's trip to Elche, which saw Barcelona claim a convincing victory to kickstart their LaLiga campaign, was marred by an act of violence that saw police officers use disproportionate force to detain a fan – believed to be a minor – who had an Estelada flag draped over his shoulders.
The Estelada is a version of the Catalan senyera flag that features a star and represents the fight for independence from Spain.
FC Barcelona confirmed on Monday that they are awaiting "explanations corresponding to the events and reserves the right to take actions that it considers fit to defend the integrity, the rights, and the freedom of expression of its members and fans."
It appears that one of those actions may involve scrapping plans to showcase the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy at the Spotify Camp Nou ahead of Thursday's LaLiga match against Athletic Club. Seven Barça players were part of Luis de la Fuente's squad that claimed victory over Argentina in North America last month, and the club planned to pay homage to their achievements.

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