Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum described the support shown by the city of Tijuana toward the Iranian national soccer team as historic during the 2026 FIFA World Cup [1, 2].
The gesture is significant because it highlights a rare moment of cultural and athletic solidarity between a North American city and a Middle Eastern nation during a global sporting event.
Speaking during a morning press conference on June 12, 2026, Sheinbaum addressed the welcoming atmosphere provided to the visitors in Baja California [1, 2]. She said that the kindness shown to the athletes and their staff was a reflection of the national character rather than a strategic government move [1].
"Las muestras de cariño no tienen nada que ver con política, sino con la humanidad de los mexicanos," Sheinbaum said [1].
The Iranian team utilized facilities provided by the Xolos de Tijuana, including the Estadio Caliente [2]. The president said she was grateful to the club for facilitating the team's stay and training needs [2].
Senate President Gerardo Fernández Noroña also commented on the interaction, noting that the encounter demonstrated the friendship and respect Tijuana holds for World Cup visitors [3].
Sheinbaum said that the hospitality extended to the Iranian delegation serves as a testament to the solidarity of the Mexican people [1]. The president said that these interactions are rooted in humanitarian values and should be viewed independently of international political tensions [1].
"Agradezco a los Xolos de Tijuana por prestar sus instalaciones para albergar a la selección de Irán," Sheinbaum said [2].
“"Las muestras de cariño no tienen nada que ver con política, sino con la humanidad de los mexicanos."”
By framing the hospitality as a humanitarian gesture rather than a political statement, the Mexican government is attempting to decouple its domestic social values from its formal diplomatic relations. This approach allows Mexico to project a welcoming image as a World Cup host while avoiding potential diplomatic friction with nations that maintain strained relations with Iran.
