In Mexico City, President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that Mexico would host the Iranian national football team during the World Cup. Mexico stepped in after the United States declined to accommodate the team. This move follows FIFA’s request to the Mexican government, prompted by the U.S. decision.
During her daily briefing, Sheinbaum stated, “We have no reason to deny them the possibility of staying in Mexico.” The White House and the State Department have yet to comment on the situation.
Mehdi Taj, leader of Iran’s football federation, revealed on Saturday that the team’s base would move to Tijuana, near the Mexican border. This relocation from Arizona aims to bypass visa complications, facilitated by direct flights from Iran via Iran Air.
The Iranian team’s involvement in the World Cup, from June 11 to July 19, faced uncertainties after the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran in late February. Iran’s schedule includes matches against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15 and Belgium on June 21, followed by a game against Egypt in Seattle on June 26.
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