Iran Files $850 Million Lawsuit Against FIFA Over 2026 World Cup Discrimination

Iran's national football team, despite not advancing to the knockout stage, has become a focal point of controversy at the 2026 World Cup. The team faced significant challenges due to U.S. sanctions, including travel restrictions that barred some coaching staff from entering the country. On July 3, 2026, an Iranian-American citizen, Lotfollah Kaveh Afrasiabi, filed a federal lawsuit in Boston against FIFA and its president, Gianni Infantino, seeking 850 million euros in damages. The suit alleges that Iran was unfairly discriminated against during the tournament, representing the interests of approximately 91 million Iranian citizens.

Central to the lawsuit is the disallowed goal scored by Shoja Khalilzade in stoppage time against Egypt, which was overturned after a VAR review citing offside. The plaintiffs argue this decision unjustly prevented Iran from advancing to the knockout rounds. Additionally, the team endured off-field difficulties such as sudden changes to their training facilities and visa denials for 11 delegation members, which allegedly impaired their preparation and performance.

Iran completed the group stage undefeated with three draws, but the disallowed goal is claimed to have been decisive in their elimination. The lawsuit also highlights the emotional distress caused to millions of Iranian fans due to FIFA's handling of the situation. FIFA and Infantino have yet to issue an official response. Notably, the Iranian players were not permitted to stay in the U.S. and instead trained in Tijuana, Mexico, crossing the border for matches in Los Angeles. Coach Amir Ghalenoi expressed frustration, stating, "We faced challenges no other team at the World Cup had to endure."