Iran to commute to World Cup games from Mexico after US refusal, Sheinbaum says
CNN • • sports
Key Points:
- Iran’s national soccer team will base itself in Mexico and travel to the United States only on match days during the 2026 World Cup after the US declined to host the team throughout the tournament.
- Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that FIFA requested Mexico host Iran’s team following US authorities' refusal, and Mexico agreed to accommodate them.
- Iran is scheduled to play three Group G matches in the US: against New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles, and Egypt in Seattle.
- The move to base the team in Tijuana, Mexico, aims to avoid visa complications and facilitate direct Iran Air flights, according to Iran’s football federation head Mehdi Taj.
- Political tensions and safety concerns, including recent US-Iran conflicts and statements from US officials, have complicated Iran’s World Cup participation logistics.