In a recent development ahead of the FIFA World Cup, Mexico has agreed to accommodate Iran’s national football team after the United States reportedly declined to host the team during the tournament. Despite Iran’s matches being scheduled in the US, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that FIFA had sought Mexico’s assistance following the US decision not to allow the Iranian squad to stay overnight on its soil.
The Iranian team’s base of operations has subsequently been relocated to Tijuana, Mexico, which is strategically situated near the US border and close to San Diego, California. FIFA has confirmed this adjustment by updating the list of team base camp locations accordingly. Originally, Iran had intended to establish its World Cup camp in Tucson, Arizona. However, increased tensions in the Middle East and complications arising from US sanctions on Iran led to the reconsideration of those plans.
President Sheinbaum expressed that Mexico is open to hosting the Iranian team and is already working with FIFA to iron out the logistical details necessary for their stay. The decision to move the team’s base to Tijuana not only addresses the geopolitical concerns but also simplifies the visa process for the Iranian players, according to Mehdi Taj, president of the Iran Football Federation. He noted that flights from Iran to Mexico via Iran Air would facilitate their travel and participation.
While the US State Department did confirm that Iran remains welcome to participate in the World Cup, it did not provide specific reasons for the decision against hosting the team within the United States. The World Cup is set to be a significant event, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with matches scheduled from June 11 to July 19.