Iran's football federation says World Cup tickets revoked days before opening match

Iran's Football Federation (FFIRI) announced that the 8% ticket allocation reserved for Iranian supporters at the 2022 World Cup was withdrawn just days before the tournament began. The decision leaves thousands of fans, many of whom had already booked travel and accommodation, unable to purchase any tickets for Iran's group‑stage matches in the United States.

The federation blamed the United States, describing the move as “sabotage” and saying it contravenes FIFA’s principles of neutrality, fairness and equality among participating nations. FFIRI did not specify who ordered the withdrawal and FIFA has not responded to requests for comment.

The issue coincides with broader visa restrictions that have limited entry for Iranian players and officials. The team’s training base was moved to Tijuana, Mexico, and players are allowed only brief visits to the United States on match days. The combination of visa hurdles and the ticket allocation reversal raises concerns about non‑sporting political factors affecting the world’s biggest football tournament.