Iran shifted its 2026 World Cup base camp from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico, due to geopolitical tensions after US and Israeli strikes on Iran earlier this year [1, 2, 3]. On June 11, the team held an open training session at the Tijuana facility, which features one training pitch and is tightly secured with armed guards and restricted access [1, 2, 3].
The day before, Iran played a match against the U-21 team of Club Tijuana (Xolos), followed by a recovery training session on June 11 [1, 2]. Iran plans two more open practices on June 12 and June 13 before traveling to Los Angeles on June 14 for their first World Cup group match [1, 2].
The team’s opening 2026 World Cup match is against New Zealand at Los Angeles Stadium on June 15, followed by matches against Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21 and Egypt in Seattle on June 26 [1, 2]. Despite earlier reports, the US Department of Homeland Security confirmed Iranian players can enter the US a day before their matches [1, 2].
Club Tijuana staff were informed only about two weeks ago of Iran’s sudden move and have worked long hours preparing the facilities [3]. Mexican fans warmly welcomed Iran’s presence. About 30 fans gathered outside the team hotel on June 10, chanting "Vamos Iran! Vamos Iran!" and seeking autographs from players including star striker Mehdi Taremi [3, 4, 5]. One Mexican fan said, "I’m ashamed of what the United States is doing. It’s wrong... [the United States] treat everyone like terrorists." [3]
Iran will travel to Los Angeles on June 14 for training and a FIFA press conference ahead of their June 15 World Cup opener. The Tijuana camp will continue to host open training sessions on June 12 and 13 before departure [1, 2].
