Iran moves its operations base from the United States to Mexico for the 2026 World Cup.

Less than 20 days to the start of the 2026 World Cup, the Iranian national team has modified its logistical plans for the tournament. In recent hours, the Iranian Football Federation announced that it will set up its base of operations in Mexico instead of the United States, after receiving approval from the FIFA.

Initially, Team Melli planned to concentrate in Tucson, Arizona, during the World Cup. However, the difficulties related to obtaining visas to enter U.S. territory and the geopolitical context in the Middle East led Iranian officials to seek an alternative.

"Thanks to the meetings we have held with FIFA officials, our request has been accepted. We will be based in Tijuana", explained Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian federation. The official also stated that the change will simplify many of the immigration issues surrounding the Asian team's participation. "Thanks to this measure, the visa problem will be largely resolved", he affirmed.

Iran is in Group G of the World Cup and will play all its first-round matches in the United States. The debut will be on June 15 against New Zealand in Los Angeles, California. It will then play again in that city against Belgium on 21 and close the group on 26 against Egypt in Seattle.

As Taj detailed, the geographical proximity of Tijuana to the Californian city was also an important factor in the decision. "The journey for our two matches in Los Angeles only takes 55 minutes by plane. It is a considerable advantage compared to Tucson,” he noted.

"For these trips, we have visa issues, especially regarding the number of available visas. This problem will be resolved soon, as the team will enter Mexico. We might be able to take a private flight with Iran Air", added the official.

While waiting to clarify its immigration situation, the Iranian team is focusing on its training camp in Turkey, where it will have a single friendly match for preparation against Gambia on May 29.