Iran Soccer Team Relocates Its World Cup Training Base to Mexico

The president of Iranian soccer’s governing body announced on Saturday that the nation’s World Cup training base has been moved to Mexico from the United States. The decision follows approval from FIFA, although the organization has not yet confirmed the move.

Mehdi Taj, president of the Iran Football Federation, stated in a federation-issued statement that Iran had initially planned to train in Tucson, Arizona. However, due to ongoing security concerns linked to the Middle East conflict, the team will now train in Tijuana, Mexico, near San Diego. Officials from Tucson’s Kino Sports Complex were unavailable for comment.

This year’s World Cup takes place from June 11 to July 19, jointly hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Iranian team members believe Tijuana’s proximity to Inglewood, California, where they play Group G matches against New Zealand and Belgium, will streamline logistics. Facilities in Tijuana offer the necessary amenities, including training spaces, gyms, and dining options.

Mehdi Taj highlighted that all team bases must receive FIFA’s approval, citing successful meetings with FIFA and World Cup officials as well as a recent webinar with FIFA’s secretary general. These engagements facilitated the relocation request.

Team Melli will appear in its seventh World Cup and attempt to progress past the first round, a milestone it has never achieved. Relocating to Mexico is expected to resolve visa challenges, enabling entry to the U.S. via Mexico. Additionally, the team might benefit from using Iran Air flights for travel between the countries.