Mexico will host Iran's national football team during the 2026 [1] FIFA World Cup after the United States refused to host the squad.
The arrangement resolves a potential diplomatic and athletic crisis that could have sidelined the Iranian team from participating in the tournament. By providing a base of operations, Mexico ensures the squad can compete despite visa-related tensions between the U.S. and Iran.
President Claudia Sheinbaum announced the decision on Monday. She said the Iranian team will be based in Mexico, likely in Tijuana, and will travel across the border for their scheduled matches.
"Mexico has agreed to host Iran's squad after the United States declined to do so," Sheinbaum said.
The U.S. government declined to host the squad due to visa-related concerns. This decision prompted the Mexican government to step in and provide the necessary infrastructure and residency for the athletes and staff.
"We will host the Iranian team in Mexico and ensure they can travel to the United States for their matches," Sheinbaum said.
Under the agreement, the team will maintain its primary residence in Mexico and commute to the U.S. for game days. This logistical workaround allows the team to remain within the tournament's geographical footprint while avoiding a permanent stay on U.S. soil.
"The team will be based in Mexico and will commute to the United States for their games," Sheinbaum said.
“"Mexico has agreed to host Iran's squad after the United States declined to do so"”
This move highlights Mexico's role as a diplomatic bridge during the 2026 tournament. By leveraging its geography to solve a U.S. visa deadlock, Mexico prevents a high-profile sporting boycott while navigating the complex geopolitical friction between Washington and Tehran.
