Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has overturned a controversial decision to block live screenings of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Federation Square, following a wave of backlash from football fans, players and sporting figures across the country.
The reversal came less than 24 hours after the Melbourne Arts Precinct announced that Fed Square would not host public screenings of Socceroos matches during the upcoming tournament, citing safety concerns linked to flare incidents and crowd behaviour during previous World Cup events.
The original decision triggered immediate criticism online, with former Socceroo Craig Foster labelling the move “absurd”, while Matildas captain Sam Kerr summed up fan frustration with a simple “Booooooooooo” on social media.
On Thursday morning, Allan stepped in publicly, confirming the state government would support the return of live sites at Melbourne’s iconic civic gathering space.
“Yesterday, Melbourne Arts Precinct decided that Fed Square won’t show Socceroos matches on the big screen,” Allan said.
“I disagree with that decision and I am overturning it.”
“There’s always a risk of bad behaviour from a few dickheads at every public gathering, but police and security will be on site, and there’ll be zero tolerance for it.”
“The World Cup should bring us together, not keep us apart. Good luck Socceroos, Victoria is behind you.”
Fed Square has become synonymous with Australian football culture since the 2006 World Cup, with packed crowds gathering through the night to watch Socceroos and Matildas matches. Images from the 2022 and 2023 tournaments travelled globally, cementing Melbourne’s reputation as one of the country’s great sporting cities.
The government has also flagged additional live sites across Melbourne during the tournament, with details expected closer to kickoff. The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins on 11 June across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
