Overview
- Iran’s football federation chief said no U.S. visas have been issued and he plans a decisive meeting with FIFA to seek formal guarantees.
- FIFA, through president Gianni Infantino, insists Iran will take part even as the regional war leaves travel and security plans uncertain.
- With no U.S.–Iran consular ties since 1980, officials say players must travel to Ankara for fingerprinting as part of the visa process.
- Team Melli is slated to base in Tucson, Arizona, and face New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt in Group G, opening against New Zealand on June 15 in Los Angeles.
- State TV showed a farewell ceremony in Tehran on Wednesday with flags, chants, and signs urging the squad to sing the national anthem.