FIFA World Cup
Mexico to Host Iran During 2026 FIFA World Cup Amid US Tensions
Iran is scheduled to play its Group G fixtures in Los Angeles and Seattle. The team will face New Zealand on June 15, Belgium on June 21, and Egypt on June 26.
Mexico has agreed to host Iran’s national football team during the 2026 FIFA World Cup after concerns emerged over the squad’s stay in the United States. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed the decision, saying her government had “no problem” accommodating the Iranian team in the border city of Tijuana.
The development comes as political tensions between the United States and Iran continue to cast uncertainty over the tournament preparations for Team Iran.
Iran Shifts World Cup Base From Arizona to Mexico
Iran had originally planned to establish its World Cup training base in Tucson. However, Iranian football officials later requested a relocation to Mexico after facing complications linked to travel and security concerns in the United States.
Speaking during a press conference, Claudia Sheinbaum said Iran approached Mexican authorities after learning the US did not want the team stationed on American soil outside of official match obligations.
“They asked us if they could be based in Mexico, and we said yes, no problem,” the Mexican president stated.
Iran’s football federation president Mehdi Taj reportedly confirmed that FIFA approved the switch following meetings with officials in Istanbul and discussions with FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom.
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US-Iran Tensions Impact World Cup Preparations
The decision arrives amid ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Since conflict escalated earlier this year, visa restrictions and diplomatic concerns have complicated travel arrangements for Iranian athletes and officials.
Reports indicate the administration of Donald Trump expressed reservations about Iranian personnel staying in the US during the tournament, despite public comments suggesting players would still be allowed entry for matches.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is being jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with the majority of matches taking place across American cities.
Iran is scheduled to play its Group G fixtures in Los Angeles and Seattle. The team will face New Zealand on June 15, Belgium on June 21, and Egypt on June 26.
FIFA Faces Growing Pressure Ahead of 2026 Tournament
The controversy has added another layer of complexity to preparations for the biggest FIFA World Cup in history. Immigration policies, visa processing delays, and regional conflicts have already raised concerns among participating nations and international fans.
Critics have questioned whether strict immigration measures in the United States could affect the accessibility and inclusivity of the tournament. Recent US visa suspensions impacting multiple countries, including Iran, have intensified that debate.
Meanwhile, Mexico’s willingness to host Iran has been viewed as an effort to ensure the tournament proceeds smoothly despite political tensions.
Iran remains one of Asia’s strongest football nations and has now qualified for four consecutive FIFA World Cups. The squad is expected to use Tijuana as its primary training and accommodation base while traveling to the US for official matches.
With the kickoff approaching, FIFA officials are likely to continue working closely with all three host nations to prevent political disputes from overshadowing the global sporting event.
