PHOENIX (AP) — The president of the Iranian soccer governing body, Mehdi Taj, announced on Saturday that the nation's World Cup training base has officially been relocated from the United States to Mexico, following approval from FIFA. This decision was confirmed in a statement issued by the Iran Football Federation's media relations official.

Iran was initially scheduled to conduct its training in Tucson, Arizona, but concerns regarding the ongoing war in the Middle East prompted discussions about a potential move. Officials from Tucson's Kino Sports Complex refrained from commenting on the situation.

The Iranian national team, known as Team Melli, will now establish its base in Tijuana, Mexico, located just south of San Diego. The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to take place from June 11 to July 19, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Taj stated that all team base camps for World Cup participants require FIFA's approval. He expressed gratitude following a series of meetings held in Istanbul with FIFA and World Cup officials, as well as a recent webinar meeting with FIFA Secretary General. Taj's statement indicated that they were pleased their request to shift the team's base from the United States to Mexico was granted.

Iran's Group G matches are scheduled to occur in Inglewood, California, where they will face New Zealand on June 15 and Belgium on June 21, followed by a match against Egypt on June 26 in Seattle. The federation emphasized that Tijuana's proximity to Inglewood would be advantageous for the team, as the location provides comprehensive training facilities, including a gym, private restaurant, and all other necessary amenities.

This upcoming tournament marks Iran's fourth consecutive World Cup appearance and the seventh in total, although the team has not yet advanced beyond the first round. In addition to addressing security concerns, moving the training base to Mexico could help mitigate potential visa complications, as the team will be able to enter the United States through Mexico. Taj also mentioned that they might utilize Iran Air flights for travel between the two locations.

Base camps serve as essential preparation sites for teams before and after their matches, and this strategic relocation aims to enhance Team Melli's training experience and logistical coordination leading into the World Cup.