Iran team departs Türkiye for World Cup base amid visa delays

Departure for Mexico

Iran's national football team departed Türkiye for Mexico on Saturday afternoon following a 15-day training camp in Antalya, embarking on a 20-hour journey to Tijuana where they will establish their base for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The squad left Antalya after training since May 19, with all players and coaching staff having secured US visas required for their Group G matches in the United States. However, 15 administrative and management personnel remain without US entry permits, according to Iran's state broadcaster IRIB.

Visa complications persist

The visa delays have affected technical and backroom staff rather than the playing squad, creating logistical challenges for the delegation. IRIB reported that the Iranian Football Federation and FIFA are jointly pursuing efforts to resolve the outstanding visa applications, with follow-up work expected to continue once the team arrives in Mexico.

All three of Iran's Group G fixtures are scheduled in the United States — including their opening match in Los Angeles — despite the team basing itself across the border in Tijuana. The 2026 tournament is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Antalya camp concludes

The visa issues emerged as a significant concern during Iran's final preparations in Antalya, where the team has trained since May 19 ahead of the summer tournament. IRIB noted that all delegation members who obtained Mexican visas traveled as scheduled on Saturday, while efforts to secure US entry for the remaining personnel are ongoing.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark the first time the tournament is hosted across three nations, with matches distributed throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico.