Iran's Team Melli Prepares for 2026 World Cup in Turkey

Iran's national football team, known as Team Melli, commenced a two-week training program in Antalya, Turkey, on May 18, 2026, under the technical stewardship of head coach Amir Ghalenoei. The training camp is crucial for the team's preparation ahead of an international friendly match against Gambia on May 29, 2026.

However, the team faces significant logistical challenges due to the absence of diplomatic relations between Tehran and Washington since 1980, compounded by heightened regional tensions. As of mid-May, no Iranian player or technical official had been granted U.S. visas, necessitating a complex process for obtaining travel documents.

The Iranian Football Federation is arranging for mandatory biometric fingerprinting in Antalya to expedite visa acquisition. Once visas are secured, Team Melli will establish its official tournament base camp in Tucson, Arizona, as they prepare for three group stage matches on American soil in the World Cup.