Iranian World Cup squad relocates base to Mexico amid US visa restrictions

Iran's national football team has moved its World Cup 2026 training base from Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico, after the United States denied visas to many members of the coaching and administrative staff. The change follows statements by U.S. officials that Iran's participation could pose security concerns.

The squad arrived in Tijuana on 7 June 2026, led by captain Ehsan Hajsafi, and was greeted by Iranian supporters. While all 26 players hold U.S. visas, several federation officials, including secretary Hedajat Mombeini and deputy president Mehdi Mohamad Nabi, still lack permission to enter the United States.

Iran will play its group‑stage matches in the United States – against New Zealand on 15 June in Los Angeles, Belgium on 21 June at the same venue, and Egypt on 26 June in Seattle – and could potentially face the U.S. in the round of 16 on 3 July if both teams finish second in their groups.