FIFA Approves Iran’s World Cup Base Shift to Mexico Amid Visa and Security Concerns

In a significant development ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup , Iran’s national football team has shifted its training base from Arizona in the United States to Tijuana, Mexico , amid mounting security concerns , visa complications and rising geopolitical tensions linked to the conflict in West Asia .

The decision was announced by Mehdi Taj , president of the Iran Football Federation, after discussions with FIFA officials in Istanbul and Tehran. While FIFA has not issued a detailed public statement, the governing body reportedly approved Iran’s request to relocate its base camp from Tucson to Mexico following several rounds of consultations.

Iran had earlier requested FIFA to move even its World Cup matches out of the United States because of growing fears surrounding player safety and diplomatic uncertainty. However, FIFA retained the original tournament schedule across the United States, Canada and Mexico , citing existing logistical, broadcasting and ticketing commitments.

The relocation comes at a sensitive moment, with tensions between Iran, the United States and Israel remaining high after recent developments in West Asia. Iranian officials were reportedly concerned about the safety of players, coaching staff and travelling supporters, especially amid stricter American immigration procedures and uncertainty surrounding visa approvals for Iranian citizens.

Officials within the federation believe shifting the base to Mexico could reduce several operational challenges. Tijuana , located near the US border and close to Los Angeles, offers easier travel access for Iran’s Group G fixtures against New Zealand and Belgium in Inglewood, California, before the team travels to Seattle for its clash against Egypt .

Football analysts have described the move as a “practical compromise” that balances tournament logistics with political realities. Some observers believe the arrangement could also help Iranian fans attend matches more easily by entering through Mexico instead of directly through the United States.

The development has once again highlighted the complicated history between Iran and the US in international sport. Encounters involving the two nations have often carried political symbolism beyond football, most notably during the memorable 1998 FIFA World Cup meeting between the countries.

This will be Iran’s fourth consecutive World Cup appearance and seventh overall. Despite becoming one of Asia’s most consistent teams in recent years, Team Melli has never progressed beyond the group stage, making this tournament another crucial opportunity to create history on football’s biggest stage.