Iran's World Cup Squad Heads to Turkey Amidst Geopolitical Tensions for Visa Processing

Iran's World Cup Journey Navigates Geopolitical Storms

Iran's national football team embarked on a journey to Antalya, Turkey, on Monday, May 18, 2026. This trip serves a dual purpose: to play a final friendly match and to finalize visa applications for their participation in the upcoming 2026 World Cup in the United States. The team's travel occurs amidst a complex geopolitical backdrop, with recent conflicts and simmering tensions between Washington and Tehran.

Despite the current climate, where co-host Washington initiated a significant wave of attacks against Iran alongside ally Israel on February 28, the Iranian team remains committed to participating in the tournament. A ceasefire has momentarily paused the fighting for several weeks, yet peace negotiations have stalled. Renewed drone attacks on Gulf countries over the weekend, coupled with statements from US President Donald Trump, have reignited concerns about a potential return to hostilities.

According to the Tasnim news agency, the squad, comprising 22 domestic-based players and their coaching staff, departed for Antalya with plans to proceed to the United States. Head coach Amir Ghalenoei confirmed on Saturday that the visa application process for the U.S. would be completed during their stay in Turkey.

Despite Tensions, World Cup Participation Expected

Iran secured its spot in the World Cup in March 2025, predating the two subsequent attacks launched by the United States against the country. U.S. officials have consistently stated that Iran's participation in the tournament is welcome. FIFA, the international governing body for football, has affirmed that the event will proceed as planned, rejecting Iranian proposals to relocate their matches to co-host nations Mexico or Canada.

Former US President Donald Trump endorsed their participation in late April, stating, "I think let 'em play." However, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed concerns, not with the Iranian players themselves, but with "some of the other people (they) would want to bring with them," suggesting potential ties to the Revolutionary Guards, an organization designated as terrorist by Washington.

Adding to the administrative complexities, officials from Iran's football federation canceled a planned trip to the FIFA congress in Canada last month. They cited being "insulted" by Canadian immigration officers. It was noted that Mehdi Taj, the head of Iran's football federation and a former member of the Revolutionary Guards—which Canada also considers a terror group—was part of the delegation.

Preparations Underway, Match Schedule Confirmed

In Turkey, the Iranian football team anticipates playing two friendly matches. Sam Mehdizadeh, an Iranian-Canadian who heads a company that arranges friendlies for the team, confirmed one match against The Gambia slated for May 29. Taj, the head of the Iranian football federation, told Iranian media last Thursday that "No visas have been issued yet," highlighting the ongoing process.

FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom held a "constructive" meeting with the Iranian federation in Turkey on Saturday, a sentiment echoed by Taj, indicating progress in preparations. Upon reaching the United States, Iran plans to establish its base camp in Tucson, Arizona.

The team, placed in Group G, is scheduled to commence its World Cup campaign on June 15 against New Zealand in Los Angeles. Subsequent matches include Belgium in Los Angeles and Egypt in Seattle.