Iran World Cup Squad to Arrive in Mexico on Sunday Ahead of FIFA 2026

Iran’s national football team is expected to arrive in Mexico on Sunday as preparations intensify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to multiple international media reports.

The Iranian squad, led by head coach Amir Ghalenoei, will be based in Tijuana, Mexico, throughout the tournament after FIFA approved a change of training camp location from Arizona in the United States. The move was made due to logistical, security, and visa-related considerations.

Reports from Reuters indicate that Mexico agreed to host the Iranian delegation after U.S. authorities declined to accommodate the team for the duration of the tournament, despite Iran’s group-stage matches being scheduled in the United States. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that the squad would stay in Mexico and travel to the U.S. only on matchdays.

According to Reuters and other international outlets, Iran’s final 26-man squad will be spearheaded by veteran forward Mehdi Taremi, while the team aims to make history by advancing beyond the World Cup group stage for the first time.

Security preparations have also been heightened in Tijuana ahead of the team’s arrival, with Mexican authorities reportedly coordinating with FIFA officials, immigration services, and security agencies to ensure a smooth stay for the Iranian delegation.

Iran has been drawn in Group G alongside New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt. The team will open its World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles before facing Belgium and Egypt later in the group stage.

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