Mexico has stepped up to host Iran’s national football team during the forthcoming FIFA World Cup after a reported decision by the United States to deny the team a stay within its borders for the duration of the tournament. This development was confirmed by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who noted that FIFA had sought Mexico’s assistance after U.S. officials declined to accommodate the Iranian squad overnight, despite their group matches being scheduled in the U.S.
The Iranian team’s training base will now be located in Tijuana, Mexico, a city near the U.S. border and not far from San Diego, California. This change was officially confirmed by FIFA as they released the list of team base camp locations for the tournament. Originally, Iran had plans to set up its World Cup base in Tucson, Arizona, but those plans were disrupted due to ongoing regional tensions in the Middle East and concerns related to U.S. sanctions on Iran.
President Sheinbaum has assured that Mexico is ready to accommodate the Iranian team and is actively working with FIFA to work out the logistical details in preparation for the event. The decision to relocate to Tijuana is seen as a practical solution to avoid potential visa issues, according to Mehdi Taj, the president of the Iran Football Federation. Taj also highlighted the convenience of direct travel to Mexico through Iran Air flights.
While the U.S. State Department affirmed Iran’s welcome to participate in the World Cup, it did not provide specific reasons for the decision preventing the team from staying in the U.S. during the tournament. The FIFA World Cup will see a joint hosting effort by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, running from June 11 to July 19.