FIFA has granted Iran permission to move its training base for the 2026 FIFA World Cup from the United States to Mexico. This decision comes amid concerns regarding travel logistics, visa issues, and geopolitical sensitivities related to the tournament.

Details of the Relocation

The announcement was made by Mehdi Taj, the head of the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran. He stated that the approval followed discussions with FIFA and tournament officials in Istanbul, along with a subsequent virtual meeting with senior FIFA representatives. Initially, Iran had planned to base its operations in Tucson, Arizona, but will now set up camp in Tijuana, Mexico, during the tournament, which is set to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Taj expressed optimism about the relocation, noting that it would alleviate operational challenges related to entering and traveling within the United States. The federation indicated that a base in Tijuana could streamline visa processes for players and staff, as well as enhance travel flexibility. Taj mentioned that the team “may even be able to travel to and from Mexico using Iran Air flights.”

Logistical Advantages

The Iranian football authorities emphasized the logistical benefits of Tijuana's proximity to the U.S. border, particularly its closeness to San Diego. This location is advantageous for accessing Iran’s group-stage matches, two of which will occur in California. The new base is equipped with all necessary training facilities, including a gym and a private restaurant.

Despite the change in training location, Iran will still compete in all its Group G matches in the United States. The team is scheduled to begin its campaign against New Zealand at SoFi Stadium on June 15, followed by a match against Belgium at the same venue six days later. Iran's final group-stage game will be against Egypt at Lumen Field on June 26.

This decision comes amid increased political tensions regarding Iran's participation in the tournament. Earlier this month, Taj was reportedly denied entry into Canada prior to the FIFA Congress due to alleged connections with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which Canada classified as a terrorist organization in 2024.