A turbulent buildup
The Iranian national side touched down in Mexico on Sunday morning, stepping into a training camp that has been reshaped by the country’s ongoing conflict and a web of visa complications. The arrival marked the culmination of a circuitous journey that began in Antalya, Turkey, where the team had been based for weeks before boarding a private jet bound for the border city of Tijuana.
Ehsan Hajsafi, the team captain, was the first to disembark and shepherd his colleagues through a series of security checks that underscored the unusual nature of the expedition. After initial plans to train in Tucson, Arizona, fell apart because of protracted visa processing, the federation relocated the base to Tijuana, a move that allowed the squad to remain within striking distance of the United States while sidestepping some of the bureaucratic roadblocks.
Despite the logistical reshuffle, several members of the delegation still lack the necessary U.S. visas, including key officials from the Iranian Football Federation. The federation has repeatedly emphasized that all players, staff, and even those serving mandatory military duties must be granted entry, a stance that reflects both sporting ambition and national pride.
The schedule ahead is equally fraught. Iran will open its Group stage in Inglewood, California, against New Zealand and Belgium, before traveling to Seattle to face Egypt. A potential showdown with the United States looms in the round of 32, a fixture that has already attracted political commentary.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly urged Iran to stay away from the tournament, citing safety concerns. The Iranian camp responded defiantly, asserting that "no one can exclude" them from participation, a declaration that was echoed by the nation’s sports minister, who had initially declared participation impossible before reversing course under pressure from the federation.
Squad selection has also been a source of controversy. Star forward Sardar Azmoun was omitted after a contentious social‑media post, leaving the attack without one of its most prolific scorers. The final roster now features 17 domestic‑based players whose club seasons have been suspended since February due to the war, a blend of resilience and inexperience that defines the current lineup.
While the political backdrop adds a layer of tension, the team’s focus remains on the pitch. The players have been training intensively in Tijuana, hoping that the preparation will translate into a competitive performance when the World Cup begins. The federation’s insistence on securing visas for every essential figure underscores the high stakes of this endeavor.