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Iran’s national football team arrived in Turkey on Monday to commence training and complete visa applications ahead of the 2026 World Cup, according to AFP correspondents.
The 22-man squad and coaching staff from “Team Melli” landed in Antalya, where they were seen leaving the airport in navy blue tracksuits.
The players will spend several weeks in Turkey before travelling for the tournament, which the United States co-hosts.
The team will be based in Arizona during the World Cup and will play all three of their group matches there, despite the wider conflict and fragile ceasefire situation.
Coach Amir Ghalenoei said the squad would also use the camp to complete visa processes, while arranging friendly matches, including a potential game against The Gambia on May 29.
The team held a send-off ceremony in Tehran last week, where supporters waved flags, although public opinion remains divided.
Some Iranians criticised the squad, claiming it does not represent the people, while others argued the players face pressure from the authorities and circumstances beyond their control.
Iran qualified for the World Cup in March 2025 but has since faced heightened political tensions following US military strikes and ongoing diplomatic friction.
US officials have said Iran will be allowed to participate, while FIFA has dismissed proposals to relocate their matches to Mexico or Canada.
The United States has also insisted that any issues would not concern players directly but possible accompanying officials.
The Iranian squad is expected to base itself in Tucson, Arizona, and will open its Group G campaign against New Zealand on 15 June in Los Angeles, followed by matches against Belgium and Egypt.
