Iran’s national football team will be based in Tijuana, Mexico, for the 2026 FIFA World Cup group phase, according to FIFA and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. This decision comes after the United States declined to host the team throughout the tournament due to diplomatic tensions, leading Iran to travel to US venues only on matchdays, as reported by MyJoyOnline and France 24.
Originally planned to be accommodated in Arizona, Iran’s base camp was shifted to Tijuana to address security concerns and visa complications associated with the US, El Financiero and Aristegui Noticias confirm. The Mexican government, led by President Sheinbaum, has affirmed its readiness to host the Iranian team, facilitating smoother logistics and stable preparations for the event.
The Iranian squad will play its group matches in US cities Los Angeles and Seattle, which means they will transit across the border for games but maintain their primary lodging and training camp within Mexican territory. Middle East Eye highlights that this arrangement is unique given the shared hosting duties between Canada, Mexico, and the US, emphasizing Iran as one of several teams headquartered in Mexico.
This relocation underscores how geopolitical dynamics continue to influence the organization of major international sports events, with Iran’s team’s placement reflecting practical responses to diplomatic challenges. Observers will be watching how the coordination between the three host countries addresses these complexities in real time as the tournament approaches in 2026.
FIFA
Mehdi Taj
Iran
United States
Gianni Infantino
Mexico
Canada
