The Iranian national soccer team, traditionally preparing for the World Cup in the desert heat of Arizona, has decided to relocate its training camp to Mexico.
Why the Move Was Necessary
Security concerns stemming from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, coupled with logistical pressures, prompted the squad’s officials to seek a safer environment abroad.
Originally, the team had been slated to train at the Kino Sports Complex in Tucson, a venue chosen for its climate and facilities, but the evolving regional situation made that plan untenable.
Official Endorsement
Iran Football Federation President Mehdi Taj confirmed the change, stating that the new location would provide the players with a stable setting to focus on fitness and tactics ahead of their opening match.
Despite the president’s endorsement, FIFA has yet to formally acknowledge the relocation, leaving the governing body’s stance uncertain.
A New Training Hub
The team will now set up camp in Tijuana, a coastal city just across the border from San Diego, offering a blend of altitude and sea breezes that differ from the Arizona desert.
From Tijuana, the squad will travel to Los Angeles for a high‑profile encounter with New Zealand on June 15, a match that could shape their tournament trajectory.
The 2026 World Cup, co‑hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, runs from June 11 to July 19, making the timing of the relocation critical for the Iranian side’s preparation schedule.