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The reason why Austria are shortened to AUT on TV at the World Cup

Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Getty Images
Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Getty Images
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Austria are shortened to AUT when their name appears on a scoreboard at the World Cup instead of AUS.

The European nation reached the round of 32 after finishing second in their group behind Argentina and ahead of Algeria, rewarding them with a tie against tournament favourites Spain.

While Spain are understandably abbreviated to SPA, Austria’s is more confusing as they are known as AUT.

Spain v Austria: Round of 32 - FIFA World Cup 2026
Photo by Maja Hitij – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

Why are Austria called AUT at the World Cup?

The International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) has a three-letter code system for every nation in the world.

To avoid confusion, Austria have been given AUT as Australia are known as AUS.

It is a small detail but as the ‘A’ in Australia comes before the ‘I’ in Austria, they have been given first priority.

Other countries who have unusual ones include the country Cabo Verde, who have the three-letter code CPV as they are known as Cape Verde.

FBL-WC-2026-MATCH84-ESP-AUT
Photo by Patrick T. Fallon / AFP via Getty Images

Where is Austria?

Austria is a landlocked country based in central Europe and is surrounded by the likes of Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, Liechtenstein and more.

Their main language is Germany, their capital city is Vienna and other major cities include Salzburg and Linz.

The 2026 World Cup is the eighth one they have competed at. They have never won it though.