Iran's national soccer team has relocated its World Cup training base from the United States to Mexico, a move sanctioned by FIFA after extensive discussions with officials. The shift is driven by security concerns and potential visa complications that arose during the team's initial stay in the U.S.
Previously, the squad had set up camp in Tucson, Arizona, but the environment proved less than ideal for preparation. By moving to Tijuana, just south of San Diego, the team gains proximity to their first Group G opponent in Inglewood, California, while also sidestepping the bureaucratic hurdles associated with direct entry into the United States.
Strategic Advantages of a Mexican Base
The new location offers a comprehensive training environment close to the stadium where Iran will play its opening match against New Zealand on June 15. Being just a short drive from Inglewood allows the squad to maintain familiar routines while reducing travel fatigue.
Beyond convenience, the relocation resolves visa issues by permitting the team to enter the United States through Mexico, streamlining travel logistics. This arrangement also opens the possibility of using Iran Air flights for intra‑regional movement, further easing scheduling pressures.
The World Cup, co‑hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, runs from June 11 to July 19. Iran's schedule includes matches against Belgium six days after the New Zealand game and a final group encounter with Egypt in Seattle on June 26. The team, known as Team Melli, is entering its fourth consecutive World Cup and seventh overall, having never progressed beyond the group stage.
Mehdi Taj, president of the Iran Football Federation, oversaw the transition and emphasized that the new base will provide all necessary facilities for preparation. The federation, together with FIFA, believes the move positions the team optimally for a competitive showing in what is widely regarded as a challenging group.