As tensions continue to escalate between the United States, Israel, and Iran, officials in Tucson, Arizona, are still preparing to welcome Iran’s national soccer team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup next month.
Iran’s men’s national team, commonly known as Team Melli, is set to use the Kino Sports Complex in Tucson as its training base during the tournament, per Al Jazeera. Staff at the facility are already making adjustments to meet FIFA standards, including modifying field conditions and coordinating accommodations and meeting spaces for players and coaches.
“We’re just excited to host them here, and we’re going to give them a positive experience,” Kino Sports Complex director Sarah Hanna told AFP.
Iran is expected to play group-stage matches in Los Angeles and Seattle as part of the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The preparations are unfolding against the backdrop of a growing geopolitical crisis. The ongoing conflict involving Iran and U.S.-Israeli military operations has intensified in recent weeks, with President Donald Trump stating that the United States would achieve victory against Iran “one way or the other.” Trump has also suggested American military operations in the region may continue while criticizing Tehran’s latest response to U.S. peace proposals.
Despite the rising tensions, Iranian football officials have insisted the country fully intends to participate in the World Cup. However, the Iranian Football Federation is seeking guarantees from FIFA and tournament host nations regarding visas, security, and treatment of the team during the competition.
According to international reports, Iranian officials specifically requested assurances that all players, coaches, and staff members, including those who completed mandatory military service tied to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, will be allowed entry into the host countries without complications.
The Revolutionary Guard is designated as a terrorist organization by both the United States and Canada, adding another layer of political sensitivity to the situation.
Iranian football officials are also requesting additional security protections during the tournament, along with guarantees that the country’s national symbols, including its flag and anthem, will be respected throughout the competition.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has repeatedly maintained that Iran will participate in the tournament, emphasizing that the World Cup should serve as a unifying global event despite political conflict.
The issue gained further attention recently after the president of the Iranian Football Federation was reportedly denied entry into Canada for a FIFA-related congress connected to the tournament.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to begin June 11 across North America.
