Iran sports minister warns matches could be stopped over protests in the stands | OneFootball

Iran’s sports minister has warned that matches at the 2026 World Cup could be stopped if hostile protests erupt in the stands.

According to L'Équipe, Iran will play their first three group games in the United States, with the opening two at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.

The minister said FIFA had been told that if anti-national team chants are heard, the head coach could take responsibility for halting the match.

Ahead of Iran’s meeting with Egypt on 27 June at 05.00, both federations have urged FIFA to block all activities linked to the LGBTQ+ community at their game.

That fixture had been designated the tournament’s Pride match and is set for Seattle, with the city’s Pride march scheduled the following day.

After prolonged uncertainty and criticism around their involvement, Iran now head into the tournament amid a strained backdrop.

Source: L'Équipe