Mexico has agreed to host the Iranian national football team after the United States refused to allow the squad to stay in the U.S.
The decision resolves a logistical crisis for FIFA and highlights the diplomatic divide between the U.S. and Iran. By providing a training base, Mexico ensures the tournament can proceed without the exclusion of a qualifying nation due to geopolitical tensions.
President Claudia Sheinbaum said there is no reason to refuse the request from FIFA. She confirmed that Mexico will welcome the Iranian team to serve as their base during the 2026 [1] FIFA World Cup.
The arrangement follows a decision by U.S. authorities to decline hosting the squad. "The United States did not want to host the Iranian football team during the tournament," Sheinbaum said.
Sheinbaum said she has no issue with Mexico hosting the team. The agreement ensures that the Iranian athletes have a secure location to prepare for their matches, a necessity for any team competing at the highest level of international football.
FIFA had requested a host for the squad after the U.S. refusal. Sheinbaum said, "There is no reason to refuse FIFA's request; we will welcome the Iranian team."
Mexico's decision to step in provides a neutral ground for the team, allowing the sporting event to remain separate from bilateral diplomatic disputes. The move allows the 2026 [1] tournament to maintain its inclusive nature across the three host nations.
“"There is no reason to refuse FIFA's request; we will welcome the Iranian team."”
This decision underscores Mexico's role as a diplomatic bridge and its willingness to maintain a distinct foreign policy from the U.S. while co-hosting a global event. By absorbing the Iranian squad, Mexico prevents a potential sporting boycott or legal challenge from FIFA, ensuring the 2026 tournament avoids a high-profile diplomatic scandal that could have marred the event's organization.
