Iran to move World Cup training base from USA to Mexico weeks before tournament

 Iran has been granted permission by FIFA to move their World Cup training base just weeks ahead of their first game. The tournament is due to get underway in just under three weeks’ time, with Mexico’s clash against South Africa due to act as the curtain raiser.

Iran will commence their World Cup journey just days later against New Zealand, with their spot at the tournament having now been confirmed. There was doubt that the side would take place due to the ongoing conflict between themselves, the USA and Israel.

And while they will now play, Iran chiefs have announced that they have been granted permission to move their training base from the USA to Mexico.

“All team base camps for the countries participating in the World Cup must be approved by FIFA,” Federation president Mehdi Taj said in a statement.

“Fortunately, following the requests we submitted and the meetings we held with FIFA and World Cup officials in Istanbul, as well as the webinar meeting we had yesterday in Tehran with the respected FIFA secretary general, our request to change the team’s base from the United States to Mexico was approved.”

The decision comes just weeks after US President Donald Trump finally gave his blessing for Iran to play at the tournament. He said: “Well if Gianni [Infantino] said it, I’m OK. Did Gianni say it? Gianni Infantino – that’s a piece of work.”

Asked what would happen if Iran won, Trump added: “If they win we’ll have to worry about that. I’m going to have to worry about that one.

“You know what, let them play. Gianni is fantastic, he’s a friend of mine, he talked about it, I said, ‘you do whatever you want’. You can have them, you don’t have to have them, they probably have a good team. Do they have a good team, do you have any idea?”

Trump’s comments followed similar from FIFA President Gianni Infantino. He said: "Of course, Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026. We want Iran to play, and Iran will play at the World Cup.

"There is no plan B, C or D – there is only plan A. Iran represent their people – both those living in Iran and those living abroad. Iran will be at the FIFA World Cup, and we’re excited because they’re a very, very strong team, in my opinion, right now.

“So, I’m very happy. I’ve seen the team, I’ve spoken to the players and the coach. So, everything’s fine. We’re delighted because they are a very, very strong team. I’m very happy.

“And of course, Iran will play in the United States of America. The reason for that is simple, because we have to unite. We have to bring people together."