Iran World Cup camp hit by visa row with US as players arrive in Mexico [Courtesy]
Iran’s national football team has arrived in Mexico ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but their build-up has been overshadowed by a diplomatic row with the United States over visa restrictions affecting members of the delegation.
The squad landed in Tijuana on Sunday after a three-week training camp in Turkey.
Iran will base itself in the border city throughout the tournament, despite all three Group G matches being scheduled in the United States.
According to The Guardian, coach Amir Ghalenoei expressed frustration over delays in travel documentation, saying the team should have arrived earlier to adjust to the time difference.
