Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum recently expressed her support for accommodating Iran’s national soccer team for the upcoming World Cup. This comes as the team shifts its training location from the United States to Tijuana, Mexico. While the matches will still be held in the U.S., the move reflects ongoing geopolitical tensions and safety concerns.
Training Base Relocation
Iran’s soccer team will now set up its training base in Tijuana, situated just south of San Diego, California. Initially intended to establish their training camp in Tucson, Arizona, the Iranian soccer federation modified its plans amid rising tensions due to the ongoing conflict in Iran. Sheinbaum confirmed the announcement, noting that a representative from FIFA approached her government about the possibility of using Mexico as a training base.
At a recent press conference, Sheinbaum revealed that U.S. officials were hesitant about allowing the Iranian team to stay overnight on American soil. “The United States doesn’t want the Iranian national team to stay overnight in the United States,” she stated. This decision led to discussions with FIFA representatives, who inquired whether Mexico would be hospitable to the team. The Mexican government assured FIFA there were “no issues” in accommodating Iran.
World Cup Matches and Context
During the 2026 World Cup, Iran will compete against several international teams, including New Zealand and Belgium, in various U.S. cities. The matches are scheduled for June, with the team playing in locations such as Inglewood, California, and Seattle. The event runs from June 11 to July 19, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
The backdrop of this decision involves not only regional conflict but also U.S. sanctions against Iran, which complicate any potential interactions. The U.S. State Department reiterated its position on Iran’s participation in the tournament but did not elaborate on logistical aspects related to the team’s stay.
FIFA’s Role and Future Planning
The decision for the Iranian team’s relocation has been endorsed by FIFA, although the organization has not publicly confirmed the move. As is common in major tournaments, teams require training camps to prepare before their matches, and ensuring a secure environment for the Iranian team is essential given current geopolitical climates.
Sheinbaum mentioned that her administration is collaborating with FIFA to finalize the logistics and ensure a seamless experience for the players. The aim is to create a supportive environment for all participating teams, underscoring Mexico’s commitment to hosting the World Cup effectively.
In summary, the adjustment of Iran’s training camp to Mexico highlights a complex interplay of sports, politics, and national security. As the world watches the upcoming tournament, it remains to be seen how various geopolitical factors will influence the dynamics of this international sporting event.