Iran steps up preparations in Turkey as FIFA World Cup draws near

Iran's national football team has stepped up preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a training camp in the Turkish resort city of Antalya, according to the semi-official Anadolu Agency, reported Xinhua.

The squad arrived earlier this week, and head coach Amir Ghalenoei said last week that the team would use its stay in Türkiye to handle visa applications for the World Cup and prepare for the event.

The Iran squad is scheduled to play two friendly matches ahead of the World Cup in Antalya against Gambia on May 29 and Mali on June 4.

Iran has been drawn in Group G for the World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada from June 11 to July 19.

The team is scheduled to open its campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, followed by a match against Belgium at the same venue on June 21. Its final group match is set for June 26 against Egypt in Seattle.