Iran Fan Ticket Allocation Revoked Days Before World Cup Start

Iran’s allocation of fan tickets for the group stage of the World Cup has been revoked just days before the start of the tournament, the Iranian football federation said.

With the 2026 World Cup taking place in North America, Iran is set to face New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt in Los Angeles and Seattle. The federation’s decision means that fans who relied on the 8% allocation— a standard FIFA provision—cannot purchase tickets.

FIFA reportedly allocates 8% of tickets to each national federation, allowing supporters to buy seats at group‑stage matches. The federation has already begun selling tickets but has now been forced to cancel the allocation, leaving some fans who have already booked travel in uncertainty.

The FFIRI statement said, “Depriving Iranian supporters of access to their lawful and official allocation of tickets is an action contrary to the spirit of governing international competitions and the principle of equality among participating countries.”

It added that the move reflects non‑sporting, political interference in the biggest football event, and called on FIFA to maintain neutrality, fairness and the established regulations.

This revocation follows a history of visa issues, training camp relocations, and staff visa denials that have already complicated Iran’s participation in the tournament.