U.S. Opposed Iranian Team Overnight Stay, Prompting World Cup Quarter Relocation to Mexico, Sheinbaum Says

Tijuana, a city just across the U.S. border from San Diego, has now been confirmed by FIFA as the new quarter location. The original plan had placed the team in Tucson, Arizona.

The relocation keeps the squad within a short travel distance of Los Angeles, where Iran will play its first two group-stage matches against New Zealand and Belgium. Because of Tijuana’s border proximity, the drive to Los Angeles takes only about one hour.

Distance to Los Angeles Was the Official Reason

Mehdi Taj, president of the Iranian Football Federation, had previously cited the distance to Los Angeles as the official reason for the quarter move. However, Sheinbaum’s remarks reveal that Washington’s reluctance to host the Iranian delegation overnight was the decisive factor.

Entry of the Iranian team into the United States had already sparked debate. The two nations have been locked in a military conflict since the end of February, heightening diplomatic sensitivities around any official Iranian presence on U.S. territory.

Military Conflict Complicates U.S. Stays

Despite the political friction, Taj stated that visa and entry issues for the players and staff have been largely resolved. He made the comments after a meeting between representatives of the Iranian Football Federation and FIFA in Istanbul, where Iran’s World Cup participation was discussed.

Mexico’s swift acceptance of FIFA’s request highlights its role as a neutral and cooperative host in the region. Sheinbaum noted that the details of the relocation are still being examined, but the fundamental agreement is in place.

A Practical Solution Across the Border

For Iran, the adjusted setup means the team can train and rest close to its match venues without the logistical and political complications of overnighting in the United States. Tijuana offers a practical alternative while preserving the competitive schedule.

FIFA has not issued a detailed statement on the diplomatic background behind the switch, but the governing body’s approval of the move suggests it accepted the U.S. position as valid.