Iranian football officials held what both sides described as a constructive and positive meeting with the world governing body for football in Istanbul to discuss preparations for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The talks focused on operational matters and ensuring Iran’s smooth participation in the tournament despite ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Iran are scheduled to base themselves in the United States and play all three of their group matches there. While visas for the team had not yet been issued prior to the meeting, Iranian federation president Mehdi Taj said discussions addressed key concerns and reaffirmed a shared commitment to facilitating the team’s involvement.

The national team will travel to Turkiye for a training camp before heading to the United States, with at least one friendly match confirmed. Iran, appearing in their fourth consecutive World Cup finals, will set up their base in Tucson, Arizona, and open their campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles before facing Belgium and Egypt.