The governing body of world football announced a stark reversal in its policy toward Iranian supporters, pulling the tickets that had been earmarked for the nation's fans attending the tournament in the United States.
The decision, confirmed by the Iranian national soccer federation, leaves the country unable to distribute any seats to its own supporters for the three group‑stage matches scheduled on American soil.
Officials attribute the move to a confluence of diplomatic pressures, notably a travel ban imposed by the United States on Iranian residents and heightened political friction involving FIFA itself.
Relocation and visa hurdles
Compounding the issue, the Iranian squad has been forced to relocate its pre‑tournament preparations from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico, after logistical hurdles prevented the original plan from materialising.
The ripple effects extend beyond the stands; several federation representatives have been denied U.S. visas, and a FIFA‑appointed referee from Somalia was barred entry, eliminating him from the competition.
World Cup fixtures place Iran's first encounter with New Zealand in Inglewood, California, on June 15, followed by a clash with Belgium in the same city on June 21 and a final group game against Egypt in Seattle on June 26.
Statements from football leadership
FIFA president Gianni Infantino had previously underscored that fans and officials from qualifying nations must be granted access to the tournament, a stance that now appears at odds with the new restrictions.
The broader tournament is slated to commence on Thursday, with the governing body yet to comment further on how it will address the access concerns raised by the Iranian delegation.