Iran’s football federation says its official fan ticket allocation for the 2026 World Cup has been revoked, leaving supporters stranded days before kickoff.
The tournament, hosted by Canada, Mexico and the U.S., begins Thursday. Iran face New Zealand on 15 June and Belgium on 21 June in Los Angeles, then Egypt on 26 June in Seattle. FIFA rules grant each federation 8% of tickets per match, but Iran says it can no longer distribute them despite sales already made.
The FFIRI condemned the move as “contrary to the spirit of international competitions,” accusing organisers of political interference.
Iran’s campaign has already been marred by disputes: the team relocated training to Tijuana after U.S. reluctance to host them, visas were denied to 15 staff, and officials were barred from Canada’s FIFA congress.
The ticket row adds fresh uncertainty to Iran’s troubled World Cup journey.
