Mexico agrees to host Iran’s World Cup team after reported US refusal
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has announced that Mexico will host Iran’s national football team during the upcoming FIFA World Cup after the United States reportedly refused to allow the team to stay on American soil. The decision highlights growing political tensions surrounding international sports and travel policies ahead of the global tournament.
According to Sheinbaum, the Mexican government agreed to welcome the Iranian squad and provide facilities for the team during the competition. Iran’s football federation confirmed that the team will now establish its World Cup training base in the Mexican border city of Tijuana rather than in the US state of Arizona, which had originally been considered as the preferred location.
The head of Iran’s football federation revealed the change on Saturday, explaining that logistical arrangements had been finalized with Mexican authorities. Tijuana, located directly across the border from the US city of San Diego, is expected to serve as a convenient location for travel and preparation during the tournament.
The development comes as the United States, Mexico, and Canada prepare to jointly host the FIFA World Cup. However, diplomatic tensions between Iran and the United States have continued to affect visas, travel permissions, and sporting exchanges between the two nations. Although no detailed official explanation was publicly provided regarding the alleged US refusal, observers believe political and security concerns may have influenced the decision.
Mexico’s willingness to host the Iranian squad has been viewed as a diplomatic gesture and an effort to ensure that all qualified teams can participate smoothly in the World Cup despite geopolitical disputes. Analysts say the move could also strengthen Mexico’s image as an inclusive co-host committed to supporting international sporting cooperation.
Iran’s national football team remains one of Asia’s strongest sides and has regularly qualified for recent World Cups. Supporters are now expected to travel to Tijuana to follow the team’s preparations before matches begin.