Iran FC Prepares for World Cup in Mexico After US Denies Team Housing

Iran's national football team will base their World Cup preparations in Tijuana, Mexico, after the United States declined to provide overnight accommodation for the squad despite hosting three of their matches. Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed the arrangement following FIFA's request, marking an unusual logistical solution amid geopolitical tensions surrounding the tournament.

The Accommodation Dispute

The US made clear it was unwilling to host Iran's squad overnight during the competition, according to Sheinbaum. In response, FIFA approached Mexico with a request to provide lodging for the Iranian team. Sheinbaum stated that her government saw no reason to deny the offer, emphasizing that Mexico had no objection to supporting Iran's participation in the tournament. FIFA subsequently confirmed that Iran's training base would be established at Centro Xoloitzcuintle in Tijuana, a Mexican border city approximately 20 kilometers from San Diego.

Match Schedule and Visa Developments

Iran is scheduled to play three group-stage matches in the United States: against New Zealand on 15 June in Los Angeles, Belgium on 21 June also in Los Angeles, and Egypt on 26 June in Seattle. Despite the accommodation restrictions, Iran's sports minister Ahmad Donyamali confirmed that FIFA has committed to issuing visas for all squad members to compete in the US. However, security concerns remain, as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that individuals with links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) could face entry restrictions. The Iranian Football Federation had submitted 10 conditions for participation, including visa access for players and officials with completed military service records.

Broader Context and Competition Impact

The arrangement reflects heightened tensions following military escalations in the Middle East earlier in the year. The uncertainty surrounding Iran's participation had created planning challenges for other competing nations, particularly New Zealand, whose opening fixture against Iran represents their first World Cup match in 16 years. New Zealand coach Darren Bazeley confirmed his team would continue preparations for the Iranian match as scheduled. Additionally, Iran's domestic football league has been inactive since the conflict began, with the team having played only two closed-door friendlies in March—a 2-1 loss to Nigeria and a 5-0 victory over Costa Rica. The squad is currently preparing in southern Turkey before relocating to their Mexican base.