Iran has asked FIFA for assurances regarding crowd behavior during its FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in the United States, warning that any disruptive incidents involving political demonstrations or hostile conduct toward the team should be addressed promptly.
According to international media reports, Iranian officials have raised concerns about the display of controversial flags and anti-Iran chants during matches. The issue comes as preparations continue for the expanded FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Iranian Sports Minister Raises Concerns
Iranian Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali said the country’s football authorities have informed FIFA of their concerns and requested guarantees that matches can be played without disruption.
He said officials had been assured that security measures would be in place to prevent incidents that could interfere with the team’s participation during the tournament.
Previous Protests and Ticket Issues
The concerns follow demonstrations held during the FIFA Congress in Vancouver in April, where some protesters called for Iran to be excluded from the tournament.
Protesters argued that the national team represents the Iranian state rather than the Iranian people, a claim that has fueled debate around the team’s participation in international competitions.
Iran has also faced logistical challenges ahead of the tournament. Reports indicate that tickets initially allocated for Iranian supporters were withdrawn, creating uncertainty among some fans planning to attend matches.
Team Training in Mexico Before Tournament
The Iranian national team is currently training in Tijuana, Mexico, and is expected to enter the United States shortly before each scheduled match. Under current arrangements, the squad will return to Mexico after completing its fixtures.
Drawn in Group G, Iran will begin its World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15. The team will then face Belgium at the same venue before taking on Egypt in Seattle on June 26.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the first edition of the tournament featuring 48 teams and will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
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