Mexico is set to host Iran’s World Cup team, following a refusal from the United States. According to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, her government agreed to accommodate the Iranian national soccer team during the tournament. The U.S. reportedly did not want to host the team.
FIFA Approached Mexico After US Refusal
Sheinbaum stated that FIFA, football’s governing body, contacted her government after the U.S. declined to host Iran’s squad. Despite the refusal, Iran are scheduled to play all three of its group matches in the U.S. Sheinbaum said that Mexico had no reason to refuse Iran’s request to stay in Mexico.
Iran’s Base Moves to Tijuana
Mehdi Taj, head of Iran’s soccer federation, said the team’s base would be moved to the Mexican border city of Tijuana during the tournament. Previously, the team had planned to base themselves in Arizona. Taj added that the move would help avoid visa-related complications. The squad would be able to travel directly to Mexico aboard Iran Air flights.
Concerns Over Iran’s Participation
Iran will play its first two Group G matches in Los Angeles against New Zealand and Belgium. They will then face Egypt in Seattle. The Iranian team’s participation in the tournament had been in question since the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran in late February.
The White House and the State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.