In a move reflecting ongoing geopolitical tensions, Iran has shifted its World Cup training base from Tucson, Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico. This decision comes amid heightened security concerns following joint military actions by the U.S. and Israel in Iran earlier this year.

Security Concerns Prompt Relocation

Originally, Iran had planned to use a sports complex in Tucson as its training headquarters during the World Cup. However, the recent military strikes have led Iranian officials to reconsider the safety of their team and staff in the United States. The decision to relocate was confirmed by FIFA on Monday, with Iran now setting up its base at Centro Xoloitzcuintle in Tijuana.

Mehdi Taj, president of the Iran Football Federation, highlighted the logistical advantages of the new location, particularly its proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border. This could potentially ease visa-related challenges when the team needs to travel to the United States for matches.

World Cup Matches Remain Unchanged

Despite the change in training base, Iran’s group-stage matches remain scheduled in the United States. The team is set to face New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, Belgium on June 21, and Egypt in Seattle on June 26. The World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, will run from June 11 through July 19.

The move was initially announced by Taj on Saturday, prior to FIFA’s official confirmation. He noted that the decision was made after consultations with FIFA and World Cup officials, including a meeting in Istanbul and a webinar with FIFA’s secretary general.

Iranian officials had previously expressed concerns over delays in obtaining U.S. visas for their players and staff, which likely influenced the decision to relocate their training base to Mexico.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.