WANA (Jun 09) – Iran’s Minister of Sports and Youth, Ahmad Donyamali, has stated that Iran’s national football team could suspend a match during the 2026 FIFA World Cup if any unauthorized flag or symbol is displayed in stadiums during its games.

 

Speaking on Tuesday on the sidelines of a national boxing team training session, Donyamali stressed that ensuring proper conditions for the Iranian team is the responsibility of tournament organizers and security officials.

 

“If we see any flag or symbol other than our official national flag in the stadium during Iran’s matches, the team manager has the authority to stop the game,” he said. “It is the organizers’ duty to correct the situation, and the security authorities in charge of the event must ensure appropriate conditions for our team. Until the issue is resolved, we may choose not to continue the match.”

 

The minister added that organizers have assured participating nations that all necessary regulations and requirements will be respected, expressing hope that such incidents will not occur.

 

Criticism of Ticketing and Hosting Issues

Donyamali also criticized what he described as obstacles related to the allocation and sale of World Cup tickets for Iranian fans, calling such actions “unprofessional.”

 

According to the minister, concerns about hosting arrangements are not unique to Iran, as several countries have raised complaints regarding aspects of the tournament’s organization. He emphasized that FIFA regulations and the Olympic Charter require host nations to provide equal treatment and high-quality services to all participating countries regardless of political differences.

 

He noted that Iranian officials are continuing to pursue the ticketing issue to ensure that the national team and its supporters receive their allocated share.

 

Expectations for Iran’s World Cup Campaign

Commenting on Iran’s prospects at the 2026 World Cup, Donyamali said the Iranian public expects the national team to deliver a strong and determined performance.

 

He expressed confidence in the players and coaching staff, stating that they are highly motivated and capable of producing impressive results. Beyond the outcome, he said, fans want to see the team compete with commitment and pride while aiming to advance to the knockout stages.

 

More Than 1,000 Athletes to Attend Asian and Para Asian Games

The minister also announced that Iran plans to send a delegation of more than 1,000 athletes, coaches, and officials to the upcoming Asian Games and Asian Para Games in Nagoya.

 

With only a few months remaining before the competitions, Donyamali said preparations are continuing at full pace and that Iranian sports programs have remained active despite recent regional tensions. He added that officials are targeting a stronger medal haul than in the previous edition of the Games.