Iran’s World Cup squad finally heads to Mexico amid visa delays, tensions

Iran’s national football team is set to base itself in Mexico for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with players scheduled to depart from Antalya, Turkey, this weekend.

The squad has been training in the southern Turkish resort since May 18, but travel has been complicated by pending US visas.

A statement from the Iranian Football Federation confirmed the team will fly via Spain before arriving in Tijuana, which will serve as their World Cup hub.

The move comes after authorities shifted their planned base from Tucson, Arizona, due to regional security and visa issues.

Iran, drawn in Group G, will face New Zealand and Belgium in Los Angeles on June 15 and 21, followed by a clash with Egypt in Seattle on June 26. Ahead of departure, the team will play a final friendly against Mali in Antalya, after defeating Gambia 3-1 on May 29.

The squad’s journey has been overshadowed by geopolitical tensions. A brief conflict involving Iran and the US earlier this year complicated visa approvals, although a ceasefire was agreed on April 8. Federation chief Mehdi Taj said efforts were ongoing to secure all necessary documentation ahead of the tournament.

“We expect the US visa to be issued quickly once our Mexican visas are confirmed,” Taj said on Monday.

The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, kicks off on June 11 and runs until July 19. Iran’s preparations reflect both logistical challenges and determination to compete on the global stage despite external hurdles.