The Iranian Football Federation says its official ticket allocation for the FIFA World Cup has been withdrawn just days before the tournament begins, limiting access for supporters planning to attend matches.
In a statement, the federation alleged that the quota previously assigned to it through official channels had been removed, accusing the United States—one of the tournament hosts—of obstructing Iranian fans from attending matches amid ongoing diplomatic tensions.
Under standard FIFA regulations, each participating nation is typically granted about eight percent of ticket capacity for matches involving its team, allowing supporters to purchase seats through official federation platforms. Iran had reportedly begun selling tickets for its group-stage matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt before the alleged withdrawal.
The federation said the decision means it is now unable to provide any tickets directly to fans.
“Under the current circumstances, the federation is unable to provide even a single ticket to supporters of the national team,” it stated, calling the move contrary to the principles of fairness and equality in international sport.
It urged FIFA and tournament organisers to ensure neutrality and restore conditions that would allow Iranian supporters to attend matches.
Neither FIFA nor US organisers have issued an official response to the allegation.
The development adds to existing tensions surrounding Iran’s participation in the tournament, including earlier reports of visa-related issues affecting members of its delegation and adjustments to its planned training base.
Iran’s national team is scheduled to open 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.