Last-minute solution to ban on leading Iran art gallery at FIFA World Cup

FIFA is expected to make a last-minute decision on whether to allow leading Iranian art galleries into the World Cup. In this case, a legal filing was made to face the New Zealand team in the opening match of this country.

A California-based nonprofit organization that aims to "support Iranian people and their expression" filed a lawsuit Thursday in Los Angeles County Court of Appeals. A preliminary phase strategy waiver is sought in that case, which will take place in the morning on the day of the contest.

The case will begin at 6pm local time on the day of the match for both teams, when the gates at Sophie Stadium open at 3pm (PT).

"Beneficiaries of leading Iranian art gallery," the filing states. "These are protected symbolic and political rights".

The Iran Art Gallery is similar to the country's official art gallery, but features a yellow lion and sun and is associated with the former regime, which was subjugated in 1979.

If the filing is successful, it could open up opportunities for similar lawsuits in other cities.

FIFA has been the subject of accusations of continuing to claim exemptions and not allow accreditations.

Iran's second match in World Cup Group G against Belgium will be in Los Angeles, and their third match will be against Egypt in Seattle on June 26.

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