MALANGRAYA.CO – Iran’s temptation towards the 2026 World Cup is still not over. Most recently, the ticket allocation for their supporters was reported to have been revoked by the US as one of the hosts along with Canada and Mexico.
“With less than three days left until the start of the 2026 World Cup, the US has once again acted to prevent the presence of Iranian fans at the stadium that hosted our three group stage matches,” said the Football Federation of Iran (FFIRI), reported by Al Jazeera.
They continued, FIFA regulations stipulate that there is an allocation of 8 percent of tickets for each match, which is given to participating federations, which are then distributed to their supporters through official channels.
FFIRI has started ticket sales for the group stage matches against New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt, all of which will be held in the US, after receiving its quota, and some fans have already made the necessary arrangements.
“However, in an unexpected move, the allocation given to us has been withdrawn, and in the current circumstances, FIFA is unable to provide even a single ticket to national team supporters,” they continued.
Also read: Only allowed to enter the US on match day, Iran has been hit by discrimination at the 2026 World Cup
FFIRI described the move as contrary to the spirit governing international competitions and the principle of equality among participating countries.
In addition, they also called on FIFA and the tournament organizers to uphold the principles of neutrality, fairness and established regulations, as well as provide the necessary conditions for Iranian fans.
The complaint is the latest dispute over Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup, following visa problems that Tehran says have prevented about 15 administrative and management staff from entering the US.
Rising tensions also prompted Iran to move their 2026 World Cup training camp to the Mexican border city of Tijuana from Tucson in the US state of Arizona, as originally planned.
Iran will start its campaign in this quadrennial football event against New Zealand in Los Angeles on 15 June 2026, before facing Belgium in the same city on 21 June 2026 and Egypt in Seattle on 26 June 2026.***
