Iran’s national football team will now conduct their 2026 FIFA World Cup preparations in Tijuana, Mexico, after world football governing body FIFA approved a request to relocate their training base from the United States.
The Iranian Football Federation confirmed that the team will no longer be based in Tucson, Arizona, but will instead camp in the Mexican border city, a move officials say improves logistics and reduces travel time to group-stage venues.
According to Iranian FA president Mehdi Taj, the decision followed discussions with FIFA officials during meetings in Istanbul and further consultations with FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafström.
“We will be based in the Tijuana camp, which is near the Pacific Ocean and on the border between Mexico and the United States,” Taj said, noting that the location offers easier access to match venues in Los Angeles and Seattle.
The 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, has been clouded in recent months by political and security tensions linked to wider Middle East developments, with Iran’s participation drawing additional scrutiny.
Iran are scheduled to play their group matches in Los Angeles and Seattle, with officials arguing that the new base significantly improves travel efficiency, cutting down flight times compared to the originally assigned Arizona camp.
The team is currently training in Antalya, Turkey, while administrative processes around visas and entry clearance continue for players and officials ahead of the tournament.
The Iranian federation has also raised concerns over visa approvals, particularly for players with past military service linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a matter still under review by US authorities.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has previously stated that Iranian players are welcome for the tournament, though individuals with security-related concerns may face additional entry checks.
FIFA has yet to issue a formal public confirmation of the base relocation, but Iranian officials insist approval has already been granted following internal meetings with tournament organisers.
The adjustment adds another layer of political sensitivity to preparations for the global showpiece, which is already being closely watched due to its expanded format and tri-nation hosting arrangement.
