To show solidarity with countries affected by terror attacks and natural catastrophes, the Wembley Stadium arch will no longer be lit, according to reports.
It comes amid criticism for not lighting up the structure in the colours of the Israeli flag following the Hamas killings.
The arch will now solely illuminate in hues associated with the stadium’s role as a sports and entertainment facility.
It is also believed that the arch will no longer be used to promote inclusion and diversity initiatives; in previous years, it has been lighted in rainbow hues to support LGBTQ+ rights.
This eliminates the expectation that the arch will be illuminated, as well as the requirement for the Football Association to evaluate often complex geopolitical issues.
Within days following assaults, the Wembley arch has taken on the colours of the flags of countries such as France, Turkey, and Ukraine.
However, following Hamas atrocities on a string of kibbutzim along the Gaza border and a big outdoor music event on October 7, the FA chose not to light it in Israeli blue and white.
The wave of attacks in southern Israel killed roughly 1,200 people, making it the bloodiest day of attacks on Jews since the Holocaust, while approximately 240 captives were taken into Gaza.
In light of this, and an outpouring of pro-Palestinian action in England and among footballers, the FA chose not to express sympathy with Israel at Wembley.
Instead, the FA settled on a moment of silence to “remember the innocent victims of the devastating events in Israel and Palestine” ahead of England’s men’s international against Australia at Wembley Stadium last month.
The FA board accepted the new policy, which means the FA can no longer be accused of taking sides in disputes by no longer lighting the arc in regard to geopolitical concerns or national disasters.