Overview
- Iran’s federation chief Mehdi Taj said Thursday that no U.S. visas have been issued for Team Melli and that a “decisive” meeting with FIFA is expected within days.
- Thousands turned out in Tehran on Wednesday for a send‑off rally where Iran unveiled its World Cup kit and confirmed a training camp in Turkey before traveling to its base in Tucson, Arizona.
- Players are set to complete U.S. visa fingerprinting in Turkey, with officials trying to move the appointments from Ankara to Antalya to reduce travel for the squad.
- Kino Sports Complex leaders in Tucson say fields, hotels, and security are ready for Iran’s stay, with group matches scheduled in Los Angeles and Seattle starting with New Zealand on June 15.
- U.S. and Canadian terrorist listings for Iran’s Revolutionary Guard could bar some staff with past service, as shown by Canada turning back Taj last month, while U.S. officials rejected separate reports of Iraq player visa denials and FIFA says Iran will play.