The Iranian Football Federation announced Saturday that FIFA approved moving the national team's 2026 World Cup training base from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico [1].
The relocation is a significant shift in preparation strategy for the national team as they navigate the logistics of a tournament hosted across North America. Moving the camp outside the U.S. border may impact the team's travel schedule and acclimation process before the competition begins [1].
Amir Ghalenoei, President of the Iranian Football Federation, said the organization is delighted that FIFA approved the move to Tijuana and looks forward to a successful preparation period there [1]. The change comes after the federation sought a different environment for its athletes to ensure optimal performance during the tournament [2].
Ghalenoei said the decision to relocate the camp was taken after careful consideration of logistics, and the welfare of the players [3]. While the federation did not specify the exact nature of the logistical concerns, the move ensures the team remains within a region suitable for high-level competition prep [1].
FIFA has overseen the transition to ensure the new location meets the necessary standards for a national team base. A FIFA spokesperson said that the change of venue complies with all tournament regulations [4].
The team had previously planned to utilize facilities in Tucson, Arizona, but the shift to Tijuana allows the squad to remain in a neighboring host country [1]. This adjustment is part of the broader planning phase for the 2026 event [1].
“FIFA has confirmed that the change of venue complies with all tournament regulations.”
The decision to move the training camp from the U.S. to Mexico suggests a prioritization of player welfare and logistical ease over the convenience of training within the primary host nation. By securing FIFA's approval for a cross-border relocation, Iran is managing the specific diplomatic or administrative challenges associated with basing a national team in Arizona prior to the 2026 tournament.
