Iranian Football Team Relocates World Cup Base from US to Mexico
Iranian football team moves FIFA World Cup base from United States to Mexico

Image: Sbs News
The Iranian football team will now be based in Tijuana, Mexico, for the FIFA World Cup 2026, following visa issues in the United States. Federation president Mehdi Taj confirmed that this change will facilitate easier travel for the team, which will play its first matches in Los Angeles. The World Cup kicks off on June 11, 2026.
- 01Iran's football team will be based in Tijuana, Mexico, instead of Tucson, Arizona, due to visa complications.
- 02The team will travel directly to matches in Los Angeles, with a flight time of approximately 55 minutes.
- 03Iran is drawn in Group G and will play against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt during the tournament.
- 04Federation officials expressed concerns about obtaining US visas for all players and staff.
- 05FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed Iran's participation in the World Cup will proceed as scheduled.
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The Iranian football team has officially moved its base for the FIFA World Cup 2026 from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico, as announced by federation president Mehdi Taj. This decision was made to avoid complications related to visa procurement for the team members, which had been a significant concern given the ongoing geopolitical tensions. Taj indicated that the relocation would facilitate easier travel, with direct flights from Tijuana to Los Angeles, where Iran will play its opening matches. The team is set to compete in Group G, facing New Zealand on June 15, Belgium on June 21, and Egypt on June 26. The World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, begins on June 11, 2026. Despite uncertainties regarding visa approvals, Iranian officials expressed confidence in FIFA's support and protocols. FIFA president Gianni Infantino reiterated that Iran's participation in the tournament would proceed as planned, emphasizing the event's role in uniting people across borders.
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This relocation may enhance the Iranian team's logistical efficiency during the World Cup, potentially improving their performance.
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