Iran Moves World Cup Base to Mexico
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- Iran Football Federation announced the World Cup training base will be relocated from Tucson, Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico after receiving approval from FIFA.
- FIFA has not publicly confirmed the move, though Iran says the request was approved following meetings in Istanbul and a webinar in Tehran.
- Kino Sports Complex in Tucson was the original planned site, but its officials declined to comment on the relocation.
- Team Melli will travel to the United States via Mexico, potentially using Iran Air flights, to avoid visa complications.
- Tijuana will serve as the new base camp, positioning the squad south of San Diego for the World Cup matches in Inglewood, Seattle, and other venues.
Why it matters: Iran's team avoids U.S. visa hurdles and travel disruptions by entering through Mexico, easing logistics for players and staff while highlighting security concerns amid ongoing U.S.-Iran tensions.
