Mexico has stepped in to host Iran’s national football team during the upcoming FIFA World Cup, following reports that the United States declined to accommodate the team. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that after the US authorities refused, FIFA requested Mexico to provide a base for the Iranian squad, whose group-stage matches will still take place in the United States.
The Iranian team will now set up its training base in Tijuana, Mexico, close to the US border and near San Diego, California. This decision was officially announced by FIFA when they released the list of team base camp locations for the tournament. Initially, Iran had planned to establish its World Cup base in Tucson, Arizona, but escalating tensions in the Middle East and issues related to US sanctions on Iran reportedly affected these plans.
President Sheinbaum assured that Mexico had no objections to hosting the Iranian team and is working with FIFA to iron out the logistical details. Iran Football Federation president Mehdi Taj highlighted that relocating to Tijuana would help the team avoid potential visa complications. He also mentioned the convenience of direct flights from Iran to Mexico via Iran Air.
While the US State Department stated that Iran remains welcome to participate in the World Cup, it did not provide further details on why the team would not reside in the US during the event. The change comes amid ongoing regional conflicts and diplomatic tensions, which have likely influenced the hosting dynamics.
The FIFA World Cup, a significant international event, will take place from June 11 to July 19, with the United States, Mexico, and Canada jointly hosting the tournament. The arrangement with Mexico ensures that Iran can still participate effectively, despite the geopolitical challenges.