Pitch invader halts play at FIFA Women’s World Cup

A protester has made his way onto the field at World Cup grand final to halt play, but some fans have had an unusual reaction.

The crowd was heard booing the man who made his way onto the field. Photo: Casey Hamlett

A pitch invader protesting Russia’s war on Ukraine has briefly halted play at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The protester made his way onto the field just past the 20 minute mark, running past security and towards the English players lining up for an offensive play.

He managed to get about 15m onto the playing surface before being apprehended by security.

The protester was wearing an anti-Putin T-shirt with the words 'Free Ukraine' on the back. Photo: Twitter

The pitch invader made it close to players lining up in front of the penalty box. Photo: Casey Hamlett

Five security guards were needed to nab the man, who made to the penalty area before he was apprehended.

He was seen wearing an anti-Russia shirt with the words ‘Free Ukraine’ on the back.

On the front of the shirt was comparing image Vladimir Putin to Adolf Hitler with the words ‘Stop Putler’.

Social media was quick to comment on the event, many making the same joke.

Pitch invader wouldn’t have tried it if Australia was in this final. 🇦🇺 @samkerr1pic.twitter.com/BYls2aHtGS

— Jake Cohen (@JakeFCohen) August 20, 2023

Video of Matildas captain Sam Kerr body slamming a pitch invader who made his way onto the pitch at one of her matches with Chelsea FC went viral in 2021.

Despite the protester being met with boos on the field, some people have voiced their support of the invader’s message.

“This is the kind of pitch invader I can get behind,” one person said on social media.

Originally published as Pitch invader halts play at FIFA Women’s World Cup