Iran Shifts 2026 World Cup Camp from US to Mexico

FIFA has officially approved Iran’s request to relocate its 2026 World Cup training base from the United States to Mexico, citing operational difficulties and political sensitivities. The announcement was made by Iranian Football Federation chief Mehdi Taj after consultations in Istanbul and a follow-up virtual meeting with FIFA leadership. The new base in Tijuana will serve as Iran’s operational hub during the tournament. Federation officials highlighted the city’s strategic location near the California border, which will ease travel for group-stage matches at SoFi Stadium and Lumen Field. Despite the base move, Iran remains scheduled to play all three group matches inside the United States, facing New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt.