WANA (May 18) –  The Iran national football team departed Tehran for Antalya, Turkey, on Monday morning with 22 domestic-based players and members of the coaching staff, beginning its final training camp and friendly preparations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States.

 

Before departure, a farewell ceremony was held at Mehrabad Airport in Tehran, where players signed national team jerseys as a gesture of appreciation for Iranian fans.

 

The shirts will later be gifted to supporters. The squad also took part in the traditional Quran farewell ceremony before boarding the plane.

 

Speaking ahead of the trip, head coach Amir Ghalenoei described the selection process for the Turkey camp as difficult, saying the coaching staff faced several limitations while finalizing the squad. He noted that the players were chosen based on tactical considerations and added that a few more names could still be dropped from the current list.

Iran National Team Heads to Antalya for Final World Cup Preparations. Social Media / WANA News Agency

Iran National Team Heads to Antalya for Final World Cup Preparations. Social Media / WANA News Agency

Ghalenoei also addressed the team’s physical condition following the end of the domestic league season, saying Iran had been behind in several key areas, including fitness, running intensity, and speed. According to him, part of that gap has already been reduced during recent camps, with the coaching staff aiming to bring the squad closer to international standards before the World Cup begins.

 

The Iranian coach also expressed concern over visa issues for the United States, voicing hope that at least 28 players would receive entry visas in time for the tournament.

 

Despite the existing challenges, Ghalenoei stressed that the team should not look for excuses and must remain fully focused on preparation. He also praised the efforts of the Football Federation and the Ministry of Sports in arranging quality friendly matches during the Antalya camp.

 

According to the official schedule, the Iran national football team will face the New Zealand national football team in its opening Group Stage match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, followed by games against the Belgium national football team and the Egypt national football team.