Iranian Soccer Team Arrives in Mexico Ahead of FIFA World Cup Amid Tensions

Protesters cast shadows onto an Iranian state flag during an Al Quds Day (Jerusalem Day) rally in Toronto on March 14, 2026. The Iranian men’s soccer team reached Mexico on Sunday, with the FIFA World Cup fast approaching. The event begins in four days, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

The team shared Instagram photos showing their departure from Antalya, Turkey, in matching white shirts and blue blazers. These images, posted on Saturday, highlighted their Turkey training efforts. On Sunday afternoon, the team updated fans with pictures of their arrival in Tijuana, Mexico, captioning them with “hi Mexico.”

Initially, training was planned in Arizona, but visa issues forced a change. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum extended an offer to host them in May. Iran is grouped in Group G and starts its group-stage matches against New Zealand in Inglewood, California on June 15, followed by games against Belgium on June 21 in Inglewood and Egypt on June 26 in Seattle.

Iran’s World Cup participation was uncertain after U.S. and Israeli strikes earlier this year. President Trump expressed safety concerns, suggesting the team should not compete. However, the Iranian team countered in March, stating FIFA, not the U.S., organizes the event.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified in April that Iranian players are welcome in the U.S. Nonetheless, certain individuals from their delegation, particularly from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), might face entry denial. The New York Times revealed that while Iranian players obtained U.S. visas, more than a dozen support staff members were denied. This group might include coaches, trainers, analysts, and medical personnel.

Additionally, Mehdi Taj, a former IRGC commander and the president of the Iranian soccer federation, also had his visa application denied. Concerns about the IRGC’s involvement likely influenced these decisions.