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The Iranian national football team landed in Tijuana early Sunday morning, officially establishing their base camp in Mexico for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026.
The squad arrived from a pre-tournament training camp in Antalya, Turkey, under tight security measures, marking a significant logistical adjustment due to ongoing visa and diplomatic challenges with the United States.
FIFA approved the relocation after the Iranian Football Federation faced difficulties securing a long-term base in Arizona. Mexican authorities, under President Claudia Sheinbaum, welcomed the team and provided access to modern training facilities near Estadio Caliente. This arrangement allows Iran to reside and train on Mexican soil while fulfilling their Group G match
commitments in the United States.
Iran is drawn in Group G alongside New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt. Their three group-stage matches will all be played on American soil: against New Zealand on June 15 or 16 in Los Angeles, Belgium on June 21 in Inglewood, and Egypt on June 26 in Seattle. However, the team will return to Tijuana immediately after each fixture, minimizing their time inside the United States.
The decision reflects broader geopolitical tensions, including strained U.S.-Iran relations. Iranian officials have expressed concerns over player safety and logistical hurdles, while Mexican officials have positioned themselves as neutral and supportive hosts for the tournament.
This unique setup presents both opportunities and challenges for the Iranian squad. While they benefit from a stable training environment in Tijuana, repeated border crossings and same-day travel requirements could add physical and mental fatigue during the high-stakes competition. The 26-player squad and remaining support staff are expected to adapt quickly as the World Cup approaches.
The move highlights the complexities of the first 48-team World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. FIFA continues to monitor the situation closely to ensure Iran can compete fairly without unnecessary obstacles.
