Iran's football federation says its allocation of fan tickets for the World Cup group stage has been revoked days before the tournament begins, BBC Sport reported on June 9.

The move points to the war in the Middle East spilling into Iran's participation at the tournament, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States, after weeks of disputes over visas and access. The Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) said it had begun selling tickets to supporters, some of whom had already made travel arrangements, but could no longer provide them.

Iran are scheduled to play New Zealand on June 15 and Belgium on June 21, both in Los Angeles, before facing Egypt in Seattle on June 26.

The federation said Fifa regulations entitled each participating federation to 8% of tickets for each of its matches to distribute to fans.

The FFIRI said depriving Iranian supporters of their official allocation ran contrary to the spirit of international competition and the principle of equality among participating countries, and raised questions about political interference in the event. It called on Fifa to uphold neutrality, fairness and established regulations.

Iran's involvement has been dogged by uncertainty linked to the conflict and related security concerns. The team moved its training base from Tucson, Arizona to Tijuana in Mexico on May 25, claiming the United States was unwilling to host it, and will fly in and out of the United States on matchday for each group game.

Iran accused the United States on June 6 of denying visas to backroom staff, with 15 administrative officials refused entry. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said Iran's players would be welcome but individuals linked to the IRGC could face entry restrictions.