In a significant development for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, Mexico has agreed to host Iran’s national football team after the United States reportedly decided against allowing the squad to stay within its borders for the duration of the tournament. This decision was confirmed by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who stated that FIFA had approached Mexico following the U.S. authorities’ refusal, despite Iran’s matches being scheduled on U.S. soil.
The Iranian team will now be based in Tijuana, a Mexican city close to the U.S. border and San Diego, California, as confirmed by FIFA when they released the official list of team base camp locations. Originally, Iran had intended to set up its World Cup headquarters in Tucson, Arizona, but regional tensions and complications arising from U.S. sanctions on Iran reportedly made that plan unfeasible.
President Sheinbaum emphasized that Mexico is fully prepared to accommodate the Iranian team and is working closely with FIFA to iron out the logistical details. This move not only provides a solution for the Iranian team but also strengthens Mexico’s role in the World Cup, which it is co-hosting with the United States and Canada from June 11 to July 19.
Mehdi Taj, president of the Iran Football Federation, noted that relocating to Tijuana will help the team circumvent potential visa-related issues. Additionally, the Iranian team will benefit from direct flights to Mexico via Iran Air, facilitating smoother travel arrangements.
While the U.S. State Department affirmed that Iran remains welcome to compete in the World Cup, it did not provide specific reasons for the decision not to host the team. This development underscores the complex geopolitical landscape influencing international sporting events, even as nations prepare to come together for the global tournament.