TIJUANA, Mexico — Iran’s national soccer team has been based in Tijuana, Mexico, for its 2022 FIFA World Cup group stage matches held at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. This arrangement follows a series of logistical and diplomatic challenges that prevented the team from using a U.S.-based training camp.
After initially planning to train in Tucson, Arizona, the Iranian team relocated to a four-star Marriott hotel in Tijuana shortly before the tournament began. The move was prompted by multiple factors, including the denial of U.S. visas for eleven Iranian officials and staff, and restrictions by U.S. authorities requiring the team to arrive no earlier than two days before matches and to leave immediately afterward. These limitations were described by the Iran Football Federation and supporters as disruptive and detrimental to the players’ preparation and well-being.
Security measures around the hotel have been significant, with barricades and the presence of police and members of the Mexican National Guard preventing unauthorized access. Despite these precautions and the political tension surrounding Iran’s participation, the mood inside the hotel has been described as relaxed and even jubilant by fans gathered to support the team.
Iranian expatriates and soccer fans from across the United States—including Los Angeles, San José, and Miami—have traveled to Tijuana to show support. Some expressed frustration at what they perceive as unfair treatment by U.S. immigration and governing bodies, viewing the restrictions as a form of political interference. Abbas Eftekhari, an Iranian-American supporter, commented on the potential psychological toll on the players, especially after encountering protests and divided reactions among the diaspora during the team’s earlier matches.
The Iran Football Federation has formally voiced its concerns to FIFA, emphasizing that "football shouldn’t lose its power to politics." The team’s secretary-general, Hedayat Mombeini, acknowledged the difficulties but emphasized the players’ determination to persevere with "Iranian pride."
Local support in Tijuana has been visible, with residents and visitors alike embracing the presence of the team. Abolfazl Pasandideh, Iran’s ambassador to Mexico, noted the country's diplomatic ties with Mexico as a positive factor in hosting the team’s training and staging area. Young local fans gathered at the hotel, hoping for autographs and expressing enthusiasm for the visiting team.
On the field, Iran has delivered competitive performances, securing draws in its first two group matches—a 2-2 result against New Zealand and a 0-0 tie against Belgium. These outcomes represent a strong showing for Iran, keeping alive their hopes of advancing to the knockout stages for the first time without a loss.
As the tournament continues, the Iranian team remains under close watch from a dedicated fan base willing to cross borders in support, navigating the complexities of politics, logistics, and passion for the game.