Iran Squad Set for Mexico Arrival Ahead of 2026 World Cup Campaign 

Iran’s national team is set to arrive in Mexico on Sunday as it finalises preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where it will compete in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand.

The squad, led by head coach Amir Ghalenoei, will be based in Tijuana after FIFA approved a switch from its originally planned training camp in the United States. The move was made amid security, travel, and visa concerns linked to ongoing tensions involving Iran and the United States.

Iran recently announced its final 26-man World Cup squad, with experienced players such as Mehdi Taremi and Alireza Jahanbakhsh expected to play key roles. However, veteran striker Sardar Azmoun was a notable omission from the team.

Despite disruptions caused by regional conflict and the suspension of domestic football activities, Iran remains hopeful of progressing beyond the group stage for the first time in its history. The team will travel from its Mexican base to the United States for its group matches during the tournament.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, begins on June 11 and will feature an expanded 48-team format, making it the largest edition of the tournament to date.