Iran Football Federation president Mehdi Taj announced Saturday that the national team's World Cup training base has shifted from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico, after securing FIFA approval. The move follows concerns over regional conflict and potential visa hurdles for U.S. entry. Taj said the federation pursued the change through meetings in Istanbul and a webinar with FIFA officials.

Tijuana sits just south of San Diego, offering a direct land route for the squad to cross into the United States ahead of its Group G opener. Iran will face New Zealand on June 15 in Inglewood, then Belgium six days later, and Egypt on June 26 in Seattle. The federation believes the new base will ease travel logistics, even allowing Iran Air flights between Tehran and Tijuana.

Team Melli heads to its fourth consecutive World Cup, still seeking a first‑round win. By relocating the camp, officials aim to sidestep the visa bottleneck that could have delayed the group's schedule. With the tournament running June 11‑July 19 across three host nations, Iran's logistical shift underscores how off‑field decisions can shape on‑field preparation for the coaching staff and players alike, and ensure match readiness.