Iran’s national football team have moved their World Cup base to Tijuana, Mexico, after abandoning plans to stay in Tucson, Arizona, amid visa and security concerns.
FIFA approved Iran’s request to relocate the camp from the United States to Mexico before the 2026 World Cup. The team are training in Tijuana while still scheduled to play Group G matches in the US.
Locals in the Mexican border city said they were proud to welcome Iran during the tournament. The Guardian reported that residents showed support for the team despite heavy security around the camp.
Iran's team is based out of Tijuana for some reason, and right before they fly to LA for their World Cup opener vs New Zealand, fans packed the sidewalk five-deep outside their hotel. Emotional send-off. pic.twitter.com/vEq5984U2F
— Rylie Nhel Conol (@ConolNhel46) June 15, 2026Iran’s base switch followed tensions with the United States and visa problems for members of the delegation.
AP-linked reports said Iran had originally planned to train in Tucson before moving to Tijuana, just south of San Diego.
Read: Iran World Cup Warm-Up Against Mali Closed To Media
Iran faces New Zealand in Inglewood, California, before later Group G fixtures against Belgium and Egypt.
