Iran Football Federation Says World Cup Ticket Allocation Revoked

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Iran Football Federation announced that its designated share of World Cup group match tickets in the United States has been cancelled. The federation called on FIFA to intervene and help restore access to the ticket quota. According to the federation's statement reported by Iran's state news agency ISNA, the United States took steps to prevent Iranian fans from attending matches against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, as well as the game against Egypt in Seattle. The matches are part of Group G in the tournament being held across Mexico and Canada. Under FIFA and tournament regulations, each national federation is entitled to 8 percent of tickets for matches involving their national team. The federation said Iranian supporters had made preparations based on this quota but are now forced to cancel their plans. The federation expressed hope that FIFA would assist in ensuring access to its allocated ticket share. No further details were immediately available.