14/06/2026
Iran to Enter the United States Only for World Cup Matches, Return to Mexico Immediately After
Iran’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup has become one of the tournament’s most unusual and politically sensitive stories. According to Iran’s ambassador to Mexico, Abolfazl Pasandideh, the Iranian national team will be allowed to enter the United States only on the day of each match and must leave immediately afterward, returning to its training base in Tijuana, Mexico. 
The arrangement means that Iranian players will not be permitted to stay overnight in the United States during the group stage, despite all three of their scheduled matches taking place on U.S. soil. Instead, the team will remain based in Mexico throughout the tournament and travel across the border for matches before returning immediately after the final whistle. 
Originally, Iran had planned to establish its World Cup training camp in Tucson, Arizona. However, ongoing diplomatic tensions, security concerns, and visa complications forced a change of plans. The Iranian Football Federation subsequently moved its base camp to Tijuana, Mexico, a decision that was approved by FIFA. 
The situation has been further complicated by reports that several members of Iran’s football delegation, including federation officials and support staff, have experienced difficulties obtaining U.S. visas. While players and essential coaching personnel have reportedly received travel authorization, some administrative officials were still awaiting approval as the tournament approached. Iranian officials have criticized the restrictions, arguing that they interfere with the team’s preparation and participation in the competition. 
Iran’s ambassador stated that the team’s travel conditions require them to enter the United States in the morning of a match and depart the same day. Such restrictions are highly unusual in modern World Cup history, where teams typically arrive at venues at least a day in advance to conduct training sessions, media activities, and final preparations. 
Despite these challenges, Iran remains committed to competing in the tournament. The team will begin its World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles before facing Belgium and Egypt in subsequent group-stage matches. Throughout the competition, Tijuana will serve as the squad’s operational headquarters. 
The arrangement highlights how international politics can intersect with global sporting events. While FIFA promotes the World Cup as a celebration of unity and competition, Iran’s unique travel restrictions have underscored the diplomatic realities that can affect participating nations. As the tournament unfolds, the Iranian team will face not only challenges on the pitch but also one of the most demanding travel schedules of any nation in the competition
