Iran's football federation has accused the United States of revoking its allocation of tickets for the national team's World Cup group stage matches, claiming the co-host is obstructing Iranian fans amid a bitter diplomatic row. The Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) said in a statement Tuesday that with less than three days until the start of the 2026 World Cup, the US has once again acted to block Iranian supporters from attending the team's three group matches.
The US has allegedly presented several bureaucratic hurdles for Iran at the global football spectacle, including refusing visas for some support staff, as tensions between the two countries remain high. The Iranian body noted that FIFA regulations stipulate an 8% ticket allocation for each match, which participating federations distribute to fans through official channels.
According to the statement, FFIRI had already begun ticket sales for group stage matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt—all to be held in the US—after receiving its quota, with some fans having made travel arrangements. However, in an unexpected move, the allocation was withdrawn, leaving the federation unable to provide a single ticket to supporters.
FFIRI described the move as contrary to the spirit of international competitions and the principle of equality among participating nations. It called on FIFA and tournament organizers to uphold neutrality, fairness, and established regulations to ensure conditions for Iranian fans. Neither FIFA nor US organizers have publicly commented on the accusation.
The complaint is the latest dispute involving Iran's World Cup participation, following visa issues that Tehran claims have prevented 15 administrative and management staff from entering the US. Rising tensions also prompted Iran to move its training base from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico.
Iran opens its campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, followed by Belgium on June 21 in the same city, and Egypt on June 26 in Seattle.
Source: www.aljazeera.com