Mexico has stepped in to accommodate Iran’s national football team for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, following reports that the United States declined to host the team during the tournament. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that FIFA asked Mexico to host the Iranian squad after the US authorities turned down the request, although Iran’s matches in the group stage will still take place in the United States.
The Iranian team will now make Tijuana, near the US-Mexico border and close to San Diego, California, their training base. FIFA has confirmed this change in the team’s arrangements by updating the list of team base camp locations for the competition. Originally, Iran had planned to set up their World Cup base in Tucson, Arizona. However, escalating tensions in the Middle East and challenges related to US sanctions on Iran reportedly led to these plans being reconsidered.
President Sheinbaum assured that Mexico is prepared to host the Iranian squad and is currently working with FIFA to iron out the logistical details necessary for the tournament. This move is seen as a smooth transition that aligns with Mexico’s capability to provide the necessary facilities and support for the team.
Mehdi Taj, president of the Iran Football Federation, mentioned that relocating to Tijuana will help the team sidestep potential visa-related issues. He also noted that Iran Air flights will enable direct travel to Mexico, facilitating a more straightforward logistic operation for the team.
The US State Department indicated that Iran remains welcome to participate in the World Cup, but did not elaborate on the reasons behind the decision not to accommodate the Iranian team within US borders. The FIFA World Cup is scheduled to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19.