World Cup: Iran name squad amid US security and travel concerns

Iran have announced its 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as preparations continue amid ongoing security and travel concerns surrounding the tournament in the United States.

The announcement comes just days after Iranian officials raised concerns over visa processing and travel arrangements ahead of the global showpiece, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Head coach Amir Ghalenoei unveiled a squad blending experience and emerging talent as Iran aim to make history by reaching the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time.

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This will be Iran’s seventh appearance at the FIFA World Cup. Despite becoming one of Asia’s most consistent performers on the international stage, Team Melli have never progressed beyond the group phase, recording only three victories in 18 World Cup matches.

Iran have been drawn in Group J alongside Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt. With the expanded 48-team format offering more qualification opportunities, Ghalenoei will hope his side can finally break new ground.

Experienced Core Leads Iran’s Challenge

The squad is led by captain Alireza Jahanbakhsh, the former Brighton winger who remains one of Iran’s most influential players. The 32-year-old has scored 17 goals in 98 appearances for his country and brings valuable World Cup experience.

Veteran defender Ehsan Hajsafi is also included and is closing in on a historic milestone. The experienced full-back is just four appearances away from equalling Javad Nekounam’s national record of 149 caps.

Other key members of the squad include goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand, defender Milad Mohammadi, midfielder Saeid Ezatolahi and star striker Mehdi Taremi, who built his reputation at Porto before moving to European football’s elite level.

Former Brentford midfielder Saman Ghoddos also returns, adding further experience to the squad.

Strong Qualifying Campaign

Iran secured qualification with an impressive campaign that underlined their status as one of Asia’s leading football nations.

They began their journey in a qualifying group containing Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Hong Kong, finishing comfortably as group winners after victories over Turkmenistan and Hong Kong and two draws against Uzbekistan.

In the third round, Iran were once again paired with Uzbekistan, alongside the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kyrgyzstan and North Korea. They successfully navigated the group to book their place at the World Cup.

Focus Turns to Historic Breakthrough

While off-field concerns continue to dominate headlines, Ghalenoei’s immediate focus will be on preparing his team for a difficult group-stage campaign.

With experienced leaders, an established core of international players and the benefit of the expanded tournament format, Iran believe they have a realistic opportunity to reach the knockout rounds for the first time in their history.

Their World Cup campaign begins against New Zealand before crucial clashes with Belgium and Egypt as Team Melli seek to write a new chapter in Iranian football history.