Iran squad members visit US embassy for World Cup visas

Several players from the Iran national football team visited the US embassy in Ankara on Thursday to submit visa applications ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to an AFP correspondent.

The players are currently in Antalya, Turkey, where the Iranian squad began a training camp on Monday in preparation for the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The trip comes after months of heightened tensions between Iran and the United States following the conflict that erupted on February 28 when the US joined Israel in military strikes against Iran.

Hostilities have been suspended since a ceasefire agreement took effect on April 8.

An AFP reporter at the embassy said four footballers in navy-blue tracksuits and one team official entered the diplomatic mission Thursday morning.

Members of the delegation are also expected to apply for visas at the Canadian embassy as part of preparations for the tournament.

Despite the absence of diplomatic relations between Iran and the United States since 1980, the vice-president of Iran’s football federation expressed confidence earlier this week that FIFA procedures would ensure smooth participation for the team.

“Team Melli” are scheduled to play friendly matches against Gambia national football team on May 29 and Mali national football team on June 4 while in Antalya.

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

The team will later face Belgium national football team before rounding off the group stage against Egypt national football team in Seattle.

Iran are still chasing a first-ever qualification for the knockout phase after six previous appearances at the World Cup finals.

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