Iran's World Cup 2026 Training Camp Relocated to Mexico: A Strategic Move for Smooth Preparations
Iran has decided to relocate their World Cup 2026 training camp from Arizona to Mexico. The team will be based in Tijuana, a city on the Mexican border, for their preparations. This move was approved by FIFA following a request from Iran's Football Federation President, Mehdi Taj. The decision to switch to Mexico was made to avoid visa-related issues due to the US-Israel war on Iran. The team will now be able to fly directly to Mexico with Iran Air for their training camp.
Iran will play their first two Group G matches in Los Angeles against New Zealand and Belgium before facing Egypt in Seattle. The distance between Tijuana and their match venues is shorter than the previously planned camp in Arizona, making it a more convenient location for the team. The switch to Mexico will help streamline their travel arrangements and ensure smoother preparations for the tournament.
The Iranian team had faced uncertainty regarding travel and security arrangements for the World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. They had requested to move their games from the US due to visa issues. Iranian officials had expressed concerns about visa delays for players and staff, prompting the request for guarantees from FIFA regarding visas, security, and the treatment of the Iranian delegation.
Before the World Cup, Iran will play a friendly match against Gambia on May 29. Coach Amir Ghalenoei will then finalize the 26-man World Cup squad by FIFA's June 1 deadline. The team is looking to make the most of their preparations in Tijuana and ensure they are ready for the tournament ahead.