Mexico Welcomes Iran’s World Cup Team for Training

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed no concern over hosting Iran’s World Cup team after its training base was moved from the United States to Mexico. The relocation aligns with the decision by Iran’s soccer federation and FIFA, urging the team to set up base in Tijuana, Mexico, south of San Diego, California.

The Iranian team will participate in its scheduled group stage matches within the United States. These include games against New Zealand in Inglewood, California, on June 15, Belgium six days later, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26.

Initially, Tucson, Arizona, was expected to host Iran’s base before the war initiated by the U.S. and Israel against Iran led to tensions. The choice to shift the base camp to Mexico reflects concerns over security and complications arising from U.S. sanctions on Iran. Sheinbaum confirmed these changes after consulting with FIFA representatives. According to Sheinbaum, the reluctance of the U.S. to accommodate the Iranian team overnight prompted the dialogue with FIFA about Mexico’s willingness to host the team.

The United States doesn’t want the Iranian national team to stay overnight in the United States,” Sheinbaum said. “The representative then asked, ‘Can they stay overnight in Mexico?’ And we said, ‘Yes, no problem. We have no issue with that.’

The official announcement by FIFA cemented the team’s base move, as the governing body released the details of 48 base camp sites for the World Cup. Base camps provide teams with facilities to train before and after matches.

The World Cup, running from June 11 to July 19, is co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The U.S. State Department reiterated that President Donald Trump welcomed the Iranian team to partake in the competition, though stopped short of addressing their stay arrangements.

Sheinbaum acknowledged ongoing coordination with FIFA to address logistical aspects before the tournament begins.

Liaising with FIFA ensures Mexico’s readiness to host Iran’s team, providing critical support amid international challenges.

For updates, refer to the AP Soccer section.