10.06.2026 22:50
Iran's Sports Minister, Ahmad Dunyamali, warned FIFA hours before the start of the World Cup, stating that they will not allow government protests or unofficial symbols to be displayed during the World Cup, otherwise they will withdraw from the field.
As the excitement of the World Cup is about to begin, a radical move from Iran that will leave a mark on the tournament has emerged.
CRITICAL WARNING FROM IRAN TO FIFA
Iran's Minister of Sports, Ahmad Donyamali, warned FIFA, stating that they will not allow anti-government protests or the display of unofficial symbols in the stands during the tournament.
''OUR HEAD COACH IS OBLIGED TO WITHDRAW FROM THE FIELD''
Following criticisms regarding the national team's participation in the tournament, Minister Donyamali made statements to the press, announcing that they have formally communicated their decision to FIFA. Donyamali issued an ultimatum, saying, "We gave FIFA a clear message: If unofficial flags (the old flags with the lion and sun symbol used by opponents) are displayed in the stands or chants are made against our national team during Iran's matches, our head coach is obliged to stop the match without hesitation." Referring to their match against Egypt, one of their group stage opponents, the Minister added that they have been assured there will be no provocation or unrest in the stadium.
IRAN'S WORLD CUP JOURNEY BEGINS WITH CRISES
During the pre-tournament preparation period, organizational and visa crises emerged on the Iranian front. The Iranian Football Federation announced that the ticket quota allocated for their fans was canceled just days before the tournament began. This decision deprived thousands of Iranian fans, who had made travel plans months in advance, of their right to attend the stands.
On the other hand, the Iran National Team, which is continuing its training camp in Tijuana, Mexico, also faced restrictions from the US Department of Homeland Security. According to the decision, Iranian players and technical staff may only enter the United States one day before each match.
MATCH SCHEDULE
Iran, which is in Group G, will play its first match of the tournament against New Zealand on June 15 in Los Angeles. Then, on June 21, Iran will face Belgium at the same stadium, and in the group's final match, they will take on Egypt on June 26 in Seattle.