Iran men's soccer team heading to Turkey for World Cup preparations
Summary
Iran's men's soccer team will travel to Turkey for a training camp and friendly matches before moving to the United States for the 2026 World Cup. The team will finalize its squad and complete visa processes in Turkey, then prepare in Tucson, Arizona, ahead of matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt.Key Facts
- Iran's soccer team will go to Antalya, Turkey, for training and friendlies before the World Cup.
- The squad includes 30 players but must be reduced to 26 for the tournament.
- One confirmed friendly match in Turkey is against Gambia on May 29.
- Players will complete U.S. visa applications and fingerprinting in Turkey to avoid traveling to Ankara.
- Iran will base its World Cup camp in Tucson, Arizona, once in the U.S.
- Their first World Cup game is on June 15 at SoFi Stadium against New Zealand.
- Iran faces Belgium next at the same stadium, then Egypt in Seattle.
- There have been mixed messages from President Trump about Iran’s participation, but FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed Iran will play in the U.S.
- Iran’s football federation says the team is participating under FIFA’s authority, not influenced by political statements.
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