The Iranian national team has traveled to Antalya, Turkey, as part of their preparation for the upcoming World Cup in North America.
The Iranian national football team departed for Turkey on Monday for a friendly match before heading to the United States where they will compete in the 2026 World Cup, according to an Iranian media report.
In Antalya, Iran hopes to play two friendly matches, with only one match against Gambia confirmed so far on May 29. The players are also expected to take advantage of their presence in Turkey to complete the necessary visa procedures for the United States, amidst tensions between Tehran and Washington.
Iran’s Football Federation president, Mehdi Taj, stated on Thursday that visas had not yet been issued for the team, as Tehran seeks assurances regarding visa issuance for the U.S. stay.
FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström described a meeting with the Iranian federation held in Istanbul on Saturday as “very constructive” in ensuring Iran’s participation in the tournament, which will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.
Having qualified for its fourth consecutive finals, Iran will set up its base camp in Tucson, Arizona, before starting on June 15 in Los Angeles against New Zealand. Iran will face Belgium on June 21 and conclude the group stage against Egypt on June 26 in Seattle.
