TIJUANA — The Iranian national football team has officially shifted its 2026 World Cup training base to the Mexican border city of Tijuana. This strategic relocation follows FIFA’s approval of a request from the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) to abandon their original planned site in Tucson, Arizona.

Navigating Logistical Challenges

Mehdi Taj, president of the FFIRI, confirmed the move in a recent statement, noting that the decision was driven by persistent difficulties in securing US entry visas for players, coaching staff, and the delegation.

The geopolitical climate has significantly complicated preparations for the tournament, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Since February 28, 2026, the Middle East has been gripped by a wider conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, leading to heightened security concerns and tightened travel restrictions.

Strategic Advantage

While the camp has moved to Mexico, Iran’s match schedule remains centered within the United States. Tijuana’s location offers a geographical benefit: the city is approximately 55 minutes by air from Los Angeles, where Iran is scheduled to play its opening matches.

The FFIRI emphasized that the new headquarters in Tijuana provides the necessary infrastructure including gym facilities and training pitches—required to keep the squad prepared while minimizing travel fatigue. The team is expected to utilize direct Iran Air flights to reach Mexico, circumventing some of the bureaucratic hurdles encountered with US-based logistics.

Despite the complexities surrounding the tournament, Iranian officials have reiterated their commitment to participating in the World Cup, emphasizing that the team will compete while remaining focused on their preparations.

Citing ongoing visa complications and logistical hurdles, the Iranian Football Federation has received FIFA approval to move its national team headquarters from Arizona to Tijuana.