Iran Begins Turkey Camp Ahead Of FIFA World Cup

TEHRAN: (Web Desk) – Iran national football team will travel to Turkey on Monday for a preparatory training camp ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, head coach Amir Ghalenoei confirmed on Saturday.

The Iranian squad will train in Antalya, where Team Melli previously held camps and played friendly matches earlier this year. Alongside training sessions, the team is expected to complete visa procedures before travelling to the United States for the tournament.

Iran have named a provisional 30-player squad, which must later be reduced to the official 26-man World Cup limit. Among the notable names included is veteran striker Mehdi Taremi, who currently plays for Olympiacos F.C. after previously starring for FC Porto.

Coach Ghalenoei described the squad selection as one of the toughest decisions of his managerial career, stating that all selections were made purely on technical merit.

Iran are also planning to play two friendly matches during the Antalya camp. One fixture against Gambia national football team on May 29 has already been confirmed.

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Because diplomatic relations between Iran and the United States have remained suspended since 1980, Iranian players are expected to complete visa formalities in Turkey before entering the US.

Mehdi Taj, head of the Iranian football federation, previously stated that no visas had yet been issued and confirmed players would likely undergo fingerprinting procedures during their stay in Turkey.

Iranian football officials also met representatives from FIFA and the Turkish Football Federation in Istanbul to discuss preparations and logistical arrangements ahead of the World Cup.

Once in the United States, Iran are expected to establish their training base in Tucson.

Iran will begin their World Cup campaign against New Zealand national football team in Los Angeles on June 15 before facing Belgium national football team and Egypt national football team in Group G.