Mexico to Host Iran’s World Cup Camp Following US Rejection

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Mexico city: Iran’s national football team will be based in Mexico during the 2026 FIFA World Cup after the United States declined to allow the squad to stay in the country for the duration of the tournament, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated on Monday.

In March, US President Donald Trump stated that although Iran was invited to perform in the World Cup, he did not believe it was appropriate for Iran's squad to be in the United States ‘for their own life and safety.’

Sheinbaum stated that Iran will come to the United States for its World Cup matches and set up its training camp in the Mexican border city of Tijuana. The agreement was reached after discussions with FIFA, which opted for a different host venue to guarantee the team could participate in the tournament without interference.

All three of Iran's Group G games, including those in Seattle and Los Angeles, will be scheduled to be held in the US. Between games, players and staff will stay in Mexico and cross borders when needed for official tournament duties, training-related activities, and matches.

The ongoing hostilities between the United States and Iran have made travel and visa arrangements more challenging ahead of the World Cup. The 2026 tournament, which will be the first to feature 48 teams, will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Mexican officials say they are prepared to support Iran to compete and give the team the facilities they need.