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Iran accuses US of revoking World Cup ticket allocation for supporters
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Iran's football federation stated on Tuesday that the United States has revoked its allocation of tickets for its World Cup group games, accusing the co-host of obstructing Iranian supporters' attendance amid a diplomatic dispute. The federation claims the US has created bureaucratic hurdles, including refusing visas for some support staff. With less than three days until the 2026 World Cup, the Iranian football body said the US has again acted to prevent Iranian supporters from attending the national team's three group stage matches. FIFA regulations dictate that participating federations should receive eight percent of tickets for each match for distribution to their supporters. Iran had reportedly begun ticket sales for matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt, all to be held in the US, after receiving its quota. However, the federation stated that the allocation was unexpectedly withdrawn, making it impossible to provide tickets to supporters. The federation described this as contrary to the spirit of international competitions and the principle of equality, urging FIFA and tournament organizers to ensure fair conditions for Iranian supporters. Neither FIFA nor US organizers have publicly commented on the accusation. This is the latest dispute, following visa issues that Tehran says have prevented about 15 administrative and management staff from entering the US. Rising tensions also led Iran to move its World Cup training base to Tijuana, Mexico, instead of Tucson
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
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