FIFA is projecting confidence over Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup after high-level talks in Istanbul eased some immediate concerns around visas, security and tournament logistics. The meeting came at a delicate time, with tensions between Iran, the United States and Israel still shaping uncertainty around Team Melli’s travel and movement ahead of the tournament. FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom and Iran FA president Mehdi Taj both described Saturday’s discussions as productive, though several sensitive issues remain unresolved publicly.Why is FIFA confident about Iran’s World Cup participation?The biggest takeaway from the Istanbul meeting was FIFA’s effort to calm fears that politics could interfere with the tournament schedule. Iran is still expected to play all three Group G matches in the United States, beginning against New Zealand national football team in Los Angeles on June 15.Grafstrom avoided discussing specifics surrounding visas or entry approvals, but his language suggested FIFA believes workable solutions are being developed behind the scenes."We've had an excellent meeting and constructive meeting together with the Iran FA," Grafstrom said. "We're working closely together and looking very much forward to welcoming them in the FIFA World Cup."Iran had requested its matches be moved to Mexico because of concerns tied to the political climate and travel restrictions. FIFA president Gianni Infantino rejected that proposal, insisting the original schedule would remain unchanged.The issue became more complicated after Taj was denied entry into Canada for the FIFA Congress because of his past ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Both the United States and Canada classify the IRGC as a terrorist organization, creating obvious concerns over whether Iranian players or staff with similar backgrounds could face entry barriers.Even with those concerns hanging over preparations, Iran has continued to move forward operationally. The federation confirmed the squad will travel to Turkey for a training camp before heading to its base in Tucson, Arizona in early June.What did Iran ask FIFA to guarantee before the tournament?Iran’s federation arrived at the meeting with a detailed list of demands focused on security, travel protections and respect for the national team during the competition. Taj said FIFA addressed each issue raised by the federation."I am pleased that they listened to Iran’s points, all 10 points that we had raised, and they offered solutions for each of them. I hope, God willing, that our national team can go to the World Cup without any problems and achieve very good results there," he said.Iran also sought stronger security arrangements around its Arizona training base and while traveling between Los Angeles and Seattle. Concerns over crowd reactions, political demonstrations and player safety have quietly become part of FIFA’s planning discussions.On the field, Iran released a 30-man preliminary roster led by striker Mehdi Taremi, though notable young attacker Allahyar Sayyadmanesh was left out. The squad must be reduced to 26 players before the tournament begins.Stay updated with the upcoming IPL match between RCB vs GT and the latest IPL news on Times of India. Follow the IPL schedule and track the race for the IPL Orange Cap and Purple Cap.