Iran’s football federation has accused the United States of revoking its allocated ticket quota for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alleging that the decision is aimed at restricting Iranian fans from attending matches amid ongoing diplomatic tensions between both countries.
In a statement released on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) said the move came just days before the tournament begins and has disrupted arrangements already made by supporters.
The federation claimed that, in line with FIFA regulations, participating teams are entitled to about 8% of match tickets for distribution to their supporters through official channels. It said it had already begun selling tickets for Iran’s group-stage matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt, all scheduled to be played in the United States.
However, FFIRI alleged that the United States unexpectedly withdrew the allocation, leaving Iranian fans unable to obtain tickets and preventing the federation from distributing any passes to supporters.
The body described the action as inconsistent with the principles of fairness and equal treatment in international sporting competitions, and urged FIFA and tournament organisers to intervene and ensure neutrality is maintained.
Iran also raised concerns over visa restrictions affecting members of its delegation, claiming that around 15 officials have been unable to enter the United States due to administrative hurdles.
Neither FIFA nor the United States organisers have issued an official response to the allegations at the time of reporting.
The dispute adds to existing tensions surrounding Iran’s participation in the tournament, with reports that the team has relocated its training base from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico, ahead of the competition.
Iran is scheduled to begin its World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, followed by matches against Belgium on June 21 and Egypt on June 26 in Seattle.
