The Iranian national soccer team has moved its World Cup training base from Tucson, Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico. According to Mehdi Taj, president of the Iran Football Federation, this decision was approved by FIFA.
Key Takeaways
Iran has moved its World Cup training base from Tucson, Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico after receiving approval from FIFA. This decision comes amid security concerns and potential visa issues related to the war in the Middle East.
- Iran’s World Cup training base relocated to Tijuana, Mexico
- Decision approved by FIFA despite no official confirmation
- Security concerns and visa issues cited as reasons for move
- Team Melli will play Group G games in California and Seattle
Taj announced the move in a statement issued by the federation's media relations official on Saturday. The team had originally been scheduled to train in Tucson but faced uncertainty due to security concerns and potential visa issues related to the war in the Middle East.
The new base camp location is expected to benefit the team as it includes all necessary training facilities, a gym, a private restaurant, and other amenities. Iran will play its Group G matches against New Zealand on June 15 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California; Belgium six days later; and Egypt on June 26 in Seattle.
According to CBS News, President Trump's messaging on Iran's participation in the World Cup has been unclear. While he initially stated that Iran was welcome to play, he later expressed concerns about the team's safety. FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that Iran will participate and play matches in the United States.
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