The Iranian team is already in Tijuana, a city that will function as its operations center during the 2026 World Cup, a decision marked by immigration restrictions and the logistical obstacles that the team faces to enter and remain in the United States.

The Asian team arrived early this Sunday at the Tijuana International Airport, where they were received under an important security device while they began their preparation for the most important tournament in international soccer.

Iran bets on Tijuana as a strategic venue for the World Cup

The choice of Tijuana responds to an exceptional situation faced by the Iranian delegation. A few days after their World Cup debut, part of the team members, coaching staff and managers continue without receiving authorization to enter United States territory.

The situation was denounced by the Iranian ambassador to Mexico, Abolfazl Pasandideh, who warned that several members of the delegation remain waiting for their immigration permits.

According to the diplomat, those who did receive authorization to enter the United States face special conditions of stay.

“They have limited permits that allow them to enter only for the time necessary to play the matches and leave the country that same day.”

Immigration restrictions complicate Iran's preparation

The limitations imposed will force the Iranian team to make constant trips between Mexico and the United States, a situation that could affect the physical recovery and logistics of the team during the competition.

As Pasandideh explained, this situation represents a competitive disadvantage compared to other teams that may remain concentrated near their respective headquarters.

“It's a challenge for our players,” said Pasandideh, referring to the physical and logistical strain that traveling constantly between both sides of the border will entail.

Reception with reinforced security in Tijuana

Although the arrival took place during the early hours of the morning, a small group of fans went to the airport to receive the Iranian team, displaying national flags and seeking to obtain photographs of the footballers.

The arrival of the team took place under a strong security operation coordinated by local, state and federal authorities, with the objective of guaranteeing the safe transfer of players, coaches and accredited personnel.

Subsequently, the delegation went to its concentration place, where it will continue its preparation for the World Cup debut.

When does Iran debut in the World Cup?

The Iranian team will play its first match of the tournament on June 15 in Los Angeles, where it will face New Zealand in a key match for its aspirations in the competition.

While the immigration problems of their delegation are resolved, the Asian team will seek to focus on sports and adapt to an atypical preparation that will force them to operate from Mexican territory for a good part of their participation in the World Cup.