PARIS: FIFA and the Iranian Football Federation have held what both sides described as constructive talks over Iran’s preparations for the 2026 World Cup, including operational arrangements for the team’s participation in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The meeting was held on Saturday in Istanbul as Iran prepares to travel for a training camp in Turkey before heading to the United States, where the team is scheduled to be based and play its group-stage matches. The discussions come amid wider regional tensions and concerns over travel and logistical arrangements.
FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom said the meeting with the Iran Football Association was “excellent” and “constructive,” adding that FIFA was working closely with Iranian officials ahead of the tournament.
“We’re working closely together and looking very much forward to welcoming them to the World Cup,” Grafstrom said.
He said the talks covered operational matters similar to those discussed with other participating football associations.
Iranian Football Federation president Mehdi Taj also described the meeting as positive and constructive. He said Iran had raised its concerns and reaffirmed a joint commitment with FIFA to ensure the smooth participation of Team Melli.
Taj had said earlier that visas had not yet been issued for Iran’s team.
Iran set for Turkey camp before US trip
The meeting took place at the headquarters of the Turkish Football Federation as Iran prepares to leave for a training camp in Turkey.
Iran are expected to play two friendlies in Antalya before travelling to the United States. One match has been confirmed against The Gambia on May 29, according to Sam Mehdizadeh, an Iranian-Canadian organiser involved in arranging friendlies for the team.
Iran are taking a 30-player squad to camp, which will later be reduced to the World Cup limit of 26 players.
Porto striker Mehdi Taremi has been included in the squad, while Sardar Azmoun, one of Iran’s leading forwards, has not been selected. Azmoun has scored 57 goals for the national team and has previously played for Bayer Leverkusen and AS Roma.
Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei defended the squad selection, saying only technical criteria were considered.
Iran’s 2026 World Cup schedule
Iran have qualified for their fourth consecutive World Cup finals and are due to set up their base camp in Tucson, Arizona.
Team Melli will begin their Group G campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15. They are then scheduled to face Belgium in Los Angeles before playing Egypt in Seattle.
The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico
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