Mexico has stepped in to accommodate Iran’s national football team for the upcoming FIFA World Cup after the United States reportedly declined to host them during the tournament. Despite Iran’s matches being scheduled in the U.S., Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that FIFA requested Mexico’s assistance following the U.S. decision.
The Iranian team will now establish their training base in Tijuana, Mexico, which is strategically located near the U.S. border and close to San Diego, California. This arrangement was officially recognized by FIFA, which announced the updated list of team base camps for the competition.
Originally, Iran had planned to set up their World Cup operations in Tucson, Arizona. However, escalating tensions in the Middle East and complications related to U.S. sanctions on Iran reportedly hindered these plans. The relocation to Mexico is seen as a practical move to sidestep potential visa issues, with Iran Football Federation president Mehdi Taj noting the convenience of direct flights to Mexico via Iran Air.
While the U.S. State Department has stated that Iran remains welcome to participate in the World Cup, no explanation was provided regarding the decision to prevent the team from staying in the U.S. during the event. Meanwhile, Mexico is coordinating with FIFA to iron out the logistical details necessary for hosting the Iranian squad.
The FIFA World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19, hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. With Mexico’s willingness to host the Iranian team, the tournament is set to move forward as planned, maintaining a spirit of international cooperation despite geopolitical tensions.