Iran’s Football Team to Stay in Mexico During World Cup

Iran’s national football team will be based in Mexico during the World Cup after the United States reportedly refused to allow the squad to stay overnight on US territory, according to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. FIFA subsequently asked Mexico to provide facilities for the team.

Iran is scheduled to play all three of its group-stage matches in the United States – against New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt. However, the team will establish its training base in Tijuana, near the US border, for security reasons. The squad had originally planned to stay in Tucson, Arizona.

The arrangement reflects ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran following the February conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran. Iranian officials had expressed concerns over possible visa complications for players and staff linked to the Revolutionary Guards, which both the US and Canada classify as a terrorist organization.

Last month, Canadian authorities reportedly questioned Iranian football federation chief Mehdi Taj for several hours upon his arrival in the country. FIFA has nevertheless assured Iran that he will be allowed to travel in North America during the tournament.

The World Cup begins on June 11 and will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

(ft, bak)