Iran's national soccer team arrived in Tijuana, Mexico, on June 7, 2026 [2], to begin training for the World Cup.
The arrangement follows a decision by the U.S. to refuse hosting the squad for the duration of the tournament. This logistics challenge highlights the intersection of international sports and diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
While the U.S. government approved visas for the players [3], it imposed strict entry requirements. The Iranian squad must enter and leave the U.S. on the same day as each of its matches [4]. This restriction prevents the team from establishing a traditional training camp within U.S. borders.
To accommodate these rules, the team will use Mexico as its primary base of operations. The squad will travel across the border only when necessary to compete in its three scheduled matches [1].
"We will sleep in Mexico and travel to the United States on the days of our three World Cup matches," Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said [5].
The decision to base the team in Mexico ensures that Iran can participate in the tournament despite the lack of a long-term residency permit in the U.S. The team will manage its preparation and recovery in Mexico before commuting to the various match venues in the U.S. throughout June [2].
“"We will sleep in Mexico and travel to the United States on the days of our three World Cup matches,"”
The requirement for same-day entry and exit suggests a high level of diplomatic friction, treating the national team as temporary visitors rather than tournament guests. By basing the team in Mexico, the organizers avoid a total boycott or disqualification of Iran, though the commute may provide a competitive disadvantage compared to teams with stable domestic bases.
