Mexico has agreed to host Iran’s national football team during the upcoming FIFA World Cup, following reports that the United States declined to accommodate the team for the duration of the tournament. This decision comes despite Iran’s group-stage matches still being scheduled to take place in the United States.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that FIFA reached out to Mexico with the request after US officials reportedly opted not to host the Iranian squad overnight. As a result, Iran’s training base has been relocated to Tijuana, Mexico, which is near the US border and close to San Diego, California. FIFA confirmed this change in its official release of team base camp locations for the tournament.
Originally, Iran had intended to set up its World Cup base in Tucson, Arizona. However, the rising tensions in the Middle East and complications related to US sanctions on Iran have reportedly hindered those plans. President Sheinbaum emphasized that Mexico is willing to accommodate the Iranian team and is actively coordinating with FIFA to finalize logistical arrangements ahead of the event.
Mehdi Taj, president of the Iran Football Federation, noted that relocating to Tijuana would help the team avoid potential visa-related issues. He also mentioned that Iran Air flights would facilitate direct travel to Mexico for the squad. Meanwhile, the US State Department has reiterated that Iran is welcome to participate in the World Cup, although it did not provide reasons for the decision not to host the team during the tournament.
The FIFA World Cup is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19. As preparations continue, Mexico’s willingness to step in ensures that Iran can still participate smoothly in the international event, despite the logistical challenges and political complexities involved.