War, visas and uncertainty: Iran finally reach Mexico for World Cup preparations
Tijuana: The Iranian squad landed in Tijuana, Mexico, on Sunday morning and will use the city as its training base before travelling to the United States for its group-stage matches later this month. Players were greeted by a small group of supporters waving Iranian flags outside the airport.
The move to Mexico comes after Iran was forced to abandon plans to train in Arizona because of visa processing difficulties affecting members of the delegation.
War and visa issues complicate preparations
Iran’s participation in the World Cup has faced uncertainty in recent months due to the regional conflict involving the country and diplomatic complications surrounding travel arrangements.
Reports from Iranian state media indicated that several officials, including senior members of the national football federation, were still awaiting US visas shortly before the team's departure. The situation prompted the federation to relocate its training camp from the United States to neighbouring Mexico.
The team had been preparing in Antalya, Turkey, before flying directly to Tijuana on a private charter flight.
Iran will begin its World Cup campaign against New Zealand on June 15 in Inglewood, California. It will then face Belgium on June 21 before taking on Egypt in Seattle on June 26.
If both Iran and the United States finish second in their respective groups, the two nations could meet in the Round of 32 in Arlington, Texas.
Squad changes and political backdrop
Iran's World Cup preparations have also been affected by domestic football disruptions. Many players selected for the tournament come from clubs that have not played competitive matches since February due to the impact of the conflict.
Star striker Sardar Azmoun was left out of the squad earlier this year amid reports that a social media post during the war angered authorities.
The team's participation had previously been questioned by both Iranian officials and political leaders abroad. However, the Iranian Football Federation ultimately confirmed its commitment to competing in the tournament and insisted that all players and staff receive the necessary travel clearances.
Despite months of political tensions, travel complications and uncertainty over squad availability, Iran has now arrived in North America and shifted its attention fully to football. The team will spend the coming days training in Mexico before crossing into the United States for what it hopes will be a successful World Cup campaign.
(With AP inputs)