Mexico City, Mexico – Web Desk: Mexico has agreed to host Iran’s national football team during the upcoming FIFA World Cup after the United States reportedly declined to accommodate the team for overnight stays amid diplomatic and security concerns.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that Iran’s national squad will be based in Mexico during the tournament. She said Mexico saw no reason to refuse hosting the team after FIFA facilitated alternative arrangements.
According to international media reports, the United States had indicated restrictions linked to potential sanctions concerns involving individuals associated with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which led FIFA to explore alternative hosting options.
President Sheinbaum stated that while Iran’s World Cup matches will be played in the United States, the team’s training base will now be located in Tijuana, Mexico. She added that Mexico remains open to hosting international teams without political considerations.
FIFA has confirmed that Iran’s original base camp plan in Tucson, Arizona, has been changed due to rising geopolitical tensions and security considerations in the region.
Iran is scheduled to play its group-stage matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt across various venues in the United States.
Iran’s Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali said FIFA President Gianni Infantino had assured that Iranian players would receive visas to enter the United States for the tournament.
