Iran's soccer team arrives in Mexico for training ahead of the World Cup

Iran’s national team arrived in Tijuana, Mexico, early Sunday for a training camp ahead of the World Cup as the teams’ U.S. matches loom. Flagship midfielder Ehsan Hajsafi led the squad off a private jet around 5:05 a.m., followed by a security process and a brief fan welcome outside the airport. Iran’s preparations have moved from Tucson to Tijuana due to visa issues amid the ongoing conflict, with some officials reportedly still awaiting U.S. visas. The team’s schedule includes group games in the United States: June 15 against New Zealand in Inglewood, June 21 against Belgium, and June 26 in Seattle against Egypt, with a potential Round of 32 meeting with the U.S. if both finish second in their groups. Iran’s broader World Cup setup features 17 home-based players, a late adjustment that followed last-year decisions about star forward Sardar Azmoun.

The arrival in Mexico reflects a broader logistical response to visa hurdles and diplomatic tensions, underscoring how geopolitical factors shape national-team preparations and tournament participation.