FIFA approves Iran’s request to move 2026 World Cup training base from US to Mexico | Football news.

Iran Football (Image: Getty)

FIFA has formally approved Iran’s request to move the 2026 FIFA World Cup training camp from Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico in the United States after concerns over logistics, travel restrictions and visa complications. The decision was confirmed by Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) President Mehdi Taj after a series of meetings with FIFA officials in Istanbul and a follow-up confirmation webinar.Why did Iran request relocation?According to Iranian football officials, the move was made primarily because of the practical and logistical challenges associated with operating directly from the United States during the tournament. One of the main factors behind the request was the desire to avoid potential visa and travel complications for players, staff and support personnel entering the United States.By setting up camp in Tijuana, Iran can reportedly simplify travel arrangements while also taking advantage of direct flights operated by Iran Air.Tijuana’s location also offers a strategic advantage. Located just south of the US border near San Diego, the city provides relatively quick access to Iran’s group stage venues in the US. Flights from Tijuana to Los Angeles take less than an hour, significantly reducing travel time compared to the team’s original training base in Tucson, Arizona.Iran 2026 World Cup Group Stage ScheduleDespite moving their base camp to Mexico, Iran will still play all of their Group G matches in the United States:

Political tensions surrounding Iran’s participation continue.

The relocation decision comes amid heightened political sensitivity over Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Earlier this month, Canada denied entry to FFIRI president Mehdi Taj ahead of the FIFA Congress, reportedly citing alleged ties to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which Canada designated as a terrorist organization in 2024.Despite the controversy, Iranian football officials have insisted that the team will participate in the Melee tournament.In a statement quoted by Al Jazeera, FFIRI said:“We will definitely participate in the 2026 World Cup but the hosts should take our concerns into consideration.”The federation also stressed that Iran would participate “without retreating from our beliefs, culture and beliefs.”