Iran's World Cup squad holds open training in Tijuana amid geopolitical tensions

Iran's national team, preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, conducted an open training session on Thursday in its new base in Tijuana, Mexico. The move follows the team’s relocation from the United States after joint U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran that began in late February. Players performed light recovery exercises after a match against the Xolos de Tijuana U‑21 side, with a welcome sign displayed in Persian and Spanish.

U.S. Homeland Security officials confirmed that Iranian players will be permitted to enter the United States one day before each of their three group‑stage matches, overturning earlier reports that they would have to cross the border on the day of each game. Iran’s first group match is scheduled for Monday, June 15, against New Zealand at the Los Angeles Stadium, with additional open trainings planned for the following two days.

The training comes as geopolitical tensions threaten to cast a shadow over the tournament, but the team remains focused on its preparations and upcoming fixtures.