Iran Confirms World Cup Participation Following Productive FIFA Talks Amid Visa Delays

Iran's national football team will proceed with its World Cup campaign despite ongoing regional instability, following a productive meeting between FIFA and Iranian football officials.

Grafstrom, representing FIFA, characterized the discussion as "excellent and constructive," emphasizing the organization's commitment to facilitating Iran's tournament participation. Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian Football Federation, echoed this assessment, describing the session as "positive and constructive" and noting that both parties addressed existing concerns while reaffirming their dedication to ensuring the team's smooth entry into the competition.

The talks took place at the headquarters of Turkey's football federation. However, a significant logistical hurdle remains: on Thursday, Taj announced that visa documentation for the Iranian squad has not yet been processed.

The Iranian contingent departs Monday morning for a preparatory training camp in Türkiye, where the team aims to play two friendly matches in Antalya. Organizers have confirmed a matchup against Gambia scheduled for May 29. The delegation will initially arrive with 30 players, a roster that will be trimmed to 26—the maximum permitted for World Cup competition.

The squad roster features Porto's Mehdi Taremi among its strikers. Notably absent is Sardar Azmoun, the prolific attacker who amassed 57 goals for his country during stints with Bayer Leverkusen and AS Roma. Azmoun, who currently plays in Dubai, faced criticism from state media following a photograph published in March showing him with the Emir of Dubai.

Coach Amir Ghalinoi addressed the selection process, stating: "I swear to God that there was nothing other than technical standards in selecting the players."

Iran will base its operations in Tucson, Arizona, as it pursues its fourth consecutive World Cup appearance. The team opens Group G competition in Los Angeles on June 15 against New Zealand, followed by a clash with Belgium in the same venue. The squad then travels to Seattle for its final group-stage encounter against Egypt.