Iran's World Cup 2026 squad faces US visa delays, moves base to Mexico

Iran's national football team is set to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with group matches scheduled in the United States against New Zealand (June 15), Belgium (June 21) and Egypt (June 26). However, the delegation has not yet received visas to enter the United States, prompting the team to relocate its training camp from Tucson, Arizona to the Xolos Complex in Tijuana, Mexico. The Iranian Football Federation confirmed that the players have secured Mexican visas and are awaiting U.S. approvals, which are expected to be granted soon, except for individuals with alleged ties to the Revolutionary Guard.

The move to Mexico was approved by FIFA after the team, currently stationed in Antalya, Turkey, requested a change of concentration site due to the political conflict between Iran and the United States. Iranian ambassador Mohammad Hassan Habibollahzadeh thanked Mexican authorities for their hospitality. Despite earlier speculation that Iran might withdraw from the tournament, the federation reaffirmed its participation, confirming that the team will travel to Mexico on June 6 before heading to the United States for their matches.