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Iran Football Team Travels to Turkey Ahead of 2026 World Cup
(MENAFN) Iran’s national football team has reportedly departed for Turkey ahead of a final friendly match and to process visa applications for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, according to Iranian media cited in reports.
The squad is expected to complete preparations in Antalya before traveling onward for the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Reports indicate the team includes 22 domestically based players along with coaching staff.
As stated by reports, the visit to Turkey also serves an administrative purpose, allowing players and officials to finalize visa procedures for entry into the United States.
Iran secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup in March 2025, though preparations have taken place against a backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions following military escalation between Iran and the United States earlier this year, involving strikes and retaliatory attacks linked to the wider regional conflict.
Despite the tensions, football authorities have maintained that Iran’s participation in the tournament will proceed as scheduled. FIFA has rejected suggestions that Iran’s matches be relocated, while US officials have stated that the team is welcome to compete.
US President Donald Trump was quoted as saying, “I think let 'em play,” when asked about the issue.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio added that any concerns would relate not to the players themselves but to potential accompanying individuals, referencing possible security issues tied to individuals affiliated with Iranian institutions designated by Washington.
The situation underscores how even international sporting events remain affected by broader diplomatic and security tensions between the countries involved.
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