Iran’s Ministry of Sports has issued a strong warning ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating that any display of unauthorized flags or anti-national team slogans during its matches will lead to the suspension of play. According to Iranian media citing Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali, FIFA has already been formally notified of this stance. Iran is set to begin its World Cup campaign against New Zealand on June 15 in Los Angeles, followed by matches against Belgium on June 21 and Egypt on June 26 in Seattle.

The warning comes amid ongoing political and social controversies surrounding Iran’s participation. The Iran–Egypt match in Seattle has been designated a “Pride Match” by local organizers, coinciding with the city’s Pride Week, prompting both nations to request FIFA to prevent LGBTQ-related activities or symbols inside the stadium. Iran has also faced protests calling for its exclusion from the tournament and ticket allocation issues that left many fans unable to attend.

The Iranian team is currently training in Tijuana, Mexico, and will enter the United States only a day before its first match due to visa restrictions, adding to the tension surrounding its World Cup journey.