Police said they had arrested three people who allegedly insulted the national anthem ahead of a World Cup qualifying match.

Hong Kong, China were playing against Iran at the Hong Kong Stadium on Thursday in a 2026 World Cup qualifying match.

Officers said three people, aged between 18 and 31, turned their backs towards the pitch when the national anthem was played.

They were arrested on suspicion of insulting the national anthem, and are being detained for further investigation.

The National Anthem Ordinance came into effect in 2020, stating that people must stand solemnly and must not behave in a disrespectful way when the national anthem is played.