Iran Accuses US of Revoking World Cup Ticket Allocation Amid Diplomatic Tensions

Posted : 09 June 2026

Iran’s football federation has accused the United States of revoking its allocated tickets for World Cup matches, alleging that the move is designed to prevent Iranian supporters from attending games during the tournament.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the federation claimed that the decision represents a deliberate effort by the co-host nation to restrict the presence of Iranian fans at matches involving their national team. The controversy comes amid heightened diplomatic tensions between the two countries, which have further complicated preparations for the tournament.

The Iranian body said it had been informed that its ticket allocation had been withdrawn just days before the start of the World Cup. It argued that this decision contradicts FIFA regulations, which typically guarantee participating nations a portion of tickets for distribution to their supporters through official channels.

According to the federation, Iran had already begun selling tickets for its group-stage fixtures against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt—all scheduled to take place in the United States—after receiving its initial allocation. Some supporters had reportedly already made travel arrangements based on those sales.

The federation added that the sudden withdrawal of tickets has left it unable to provide access for any fans, calling the move inconsistent with the principles of fairness and equality in international competition.

It has urged FIFA and tournament organisers to intervene, insisting that the governing body must ensure neutrality and uphold established ticketing rules for all participating nations.

Neither FIFA nor US officials have issued a public response to the allegations so far.

The dispute adds to a series of challenges surrounding Iran’s participation in the tournament, including reported visa denials affecting members of its administrative staff. Tehran claims that around 15 officials have been unable to enter the United States due to these restrictions.

Tensions have also impacted Iran’s logistical preparations, with the team relocating its planned World Cup training base from Arizona to Tijuana near the Mexican border.

Iran will begin its World Cup campaign in Los Angeles against New Zealand on June 15, before facing Belgium in the same city and Egypt in Seattle during the group stage.

Iran Accuses US of Revoking World Cup Ticket Allocation Amid Diplomatic Tensions

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