Iran’s football federation has claimed that the United States has withdrawn its allocated ticket quota for Iranian supporters ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calling the move unfair and inconsistent with international sporting rules.
Dispute Over Ticket Allocation
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Iranian football federation said the US decision would prevent its fans from attending group-stage matches, despite earlier arrangements for ticket distribution.
According to the federation, FIFA regulations entitle each participating country to around 8% of tickets for every match, which are typically distributed through official national football associations. Iran said it had already begun selling tickets to supporters for its group-stage games before the alleged withdrawal.
“With less than three days remaining until the start of the 2026 World Cup… the United States has once again acted to obstruct the presence of Iranian supporters,” the statement said.
The federation further claimed that under the new situation, it would be unable to provide even a single ticket to its supporters, describing the decision as “contrary to the spirit governing international competitions” and the principle of fairness among participating nations.
Call for FIFA Intervention
Iran urged FIFA and World Cup organisers to intervene and ensure neutrality and equal treatment for all teams and their supporters. The federation stressed that sporting events should remain free from political disputes and international tensions.
So far, neither FIFA nor US organisers have issued an official response to the allegations.
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Wider Diplomatic Tensions Affecting the Tournament
The complaint comes amid already strained relations between Iran and the United States, which have reportedly affected Iran’s participation in the tournament. Earlier, Tehran had accused Washington of delaying or denying visas for members of its delegation, particularly administrative and technical staff.
Iran has also shifted its team base to Tijuana, Mexico, instead of Arizona due to logistical and diplomatic concerns linked to the ongoing tensions.
Iran’s World Cup Fixtures
Iran is scheduled to begin its World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, followed by matches against Belgium and Egypt in the United States.
The controversy adds another layer of political complexity to what is already being described as one of the most geopolitically sensitive World Cups in recent history.
