President Claudia Sheinbaum approved the Iranian national soccer team's plan to establish a training camp in Tijuana, Baja California.
The decision follows a refusal by the U.S. to allow the Iranian squad to stay within its borders during preparations for the 2026 World Cup [1]. This arrangement ensures the team has a base of operations near the U.S. border despite the travel restrictions.
Sheinbaum said Mexico respects the decision made by the U.S. government regarding the team's inability to overnight in U.S. territory [1]. By providing a location in Tijuana, Mexico offers a diplomatic and logistical alternative for the squad as they prepare for the international tournament [2].
The 2026 World Cup [1] is a joint effort between three nations, yet individual host countries maintain their own immigration and security protocols. The Iranian team's situation highlights the friction between sporting neutrality and national security policies, a challenge that often arises when teams from sanctioned nations participate in global events.
Tijuana serves as a strategic location due to its proximity to the U.S. border, allowing the team to remain close to their scheduled venues while adhering to the restrictions imposed by Washington [2]. The Mexican administration's approval allows the team to maintain its training schedule without further delay [1].
“Mexico respects the decision of the US to not allow the Iranian soccer team to stay in its territory.”
This move demonstrates Mexico's role as a diplomatic mediator and logistical bridge during the 2026 World Cup. By hosting a team that the U.S. refuses to house, Mexico navigates a complex geopolitical landscape, maintaining its commitment to the tournament's success while acknowledging the sovereignty and security concerns of its northern neighbor.
