Iran moves its 2026 World Cup camp and settles in Mexico: Tijuana to become the Asian side’s new base ahead of the World Cup

Iran’s national team changed its plans for the 2026 World Cup and relocated its base camp from the United States to Mexico. Tijuana will become the Asian side’s operations center before and during its World Cup campaign.

An unexpected change ahead of the World Cup

Iran’s national team unexpectedly altered its plans for the 2026 World Cup and decided to move its base camp to Mexico, leaving behind the location it had originally planned in the United States.

The decision turns Tijuana into the new strategic hub for the Asian side during the tournament hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

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Tijuana will be Iran’s new home

The Iranian federation confirmed that the team will train in Tijuana, a border city that will help facilitate logistics and squad mobility. Several reports indicate that the move received FIFA approval following discussions between the parties involved.

The new camp is expected to be located at facilities connected to professional Mexican soccer, a choice that also places the team closer to its competition venues.

A drone view shows Club Tijuana Xoloitzcuintles de Caliente's training facilities after the club announced the city will serve as the FIFA World Cup 2026 base camp for Iran’s national team, which Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said will stay in Mexico and travel to the United States for its three matches after Washington declined to host the squad, in Tijuana, Mexico, May 25, 2026. REUTERS/Jorge Duenes

Why did Iran leave the United States?

The move is mainly linked to logistical and security factors surrounding the Iranian team’s presence in the United States. The political context and complications related to mobility and accommodation influenced the decision to shift the camp to Mexico.

Although the team changed its operational base, FIFA has kept the tournament’s official schedule unchanged.

Their matches will still be played in the United States

Despite relocating its camp, Iran will play its group-stage matches in the United States. The Asian side remains scheduled to play in cities such as Los Angeles and Seattle during its 2026 World Cup journey.

Mexico welcomes another World Cup team

Iran’s arrival strengthens Mexico’s role as a key training and preparation hub for several national teams during the World Cup. Tijuana is set to join the World Cup map as one of the tournament’s most relevant international preparation centers.