The Iranian national football team is expected to be without the support of its fans when the World Cup begins in the United States on Thursday.
According to an announcement made by the Iranian Football Federation on Tuesday, the United States has suddenly revoked the ticket allocations that had been reserved for Iran’s supporters for their group-stage fixtures. This development adds to a growing list of administrative and diplomatic disputes that have emerged between the US and Iran in the build-up to the World Cup.
In a statement, the Iranian Football Federation claimed that the decision was aimed at “preventing Iranian fans from attending matches.” As per FIFA’s regulations, Iran was entitled to eight per cent of the total tickets for each of its group games. The Federation had already started selling tickets for its matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt—all scheduled to take place in the US—when the distribution was abruptly cancelled.
“Unexpectedly, these ticket allocations have been withdrawn, leaving the Federation unable to offer even a single ticket to the national team’s supporters,” the statement read. The Federation further described this action as “against the spirit of global tournaments and the principle of fairness among participating countries.”
Due to the ongoing strain in relations with the US, Iran has relocated its World Cup training base from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico.
Neither FIFA nor the US organisers have issued any official response to Iran’s claims. The Iranian World Cup delegation had already encountered visa-related difficulties, with players being allowed entry into the US at the last moment, while 15 officials were denied visas. This visa issue, combined with the ticket controversy, has further complicated Iran’s preparations for the tournament.
Iran will begin their World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on 15 June, followed by a clash with Belgium at the same venue on 21 June. Their final Group G match is scheduled against Egypt in Seattle on 26 June.
-
Frequent monopollution with partner? Anger will melt away if you follow a special Japanese philosophy
-
In summer, guests are served not just water but these traditional drinks in different states of India.
-
Common Paneer Mistakes That Make It Hard And How To Fix Them
-
What to feed a 6 month old baby? Know the safest and nutritious food options
-
Superfit even at the age of 41, Cristiano Ronaldo stays away from this thing to stay fit, know everything from diet to workout
