Iran national football team held an open training session in Mexico on Thursday as the squad continued preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026, with attention still focused on logistical challenges surrounding their participation following recent tensions between Iran and the United States.
The training session at the home facility of Club Tijuana offered journalists their first glimpse of the team since arriving in Mexico last weekend after relocating their base camp from Arizona to Tijuana.
Only a small group of players took part in the portion of training open to the media. Among those absent was star striker Mehdi Taremi, while the players present completed light running, stretching and fitness exercises.
Iran are set to open their World Cup campaign against New Zealand national football team on Monday in Los Angeles.
A team official confirmed that the squad is expected to enter the United States on Sunday before travelling to California for the Group G fixture.
Questions over Iran’s travel arrangements have dominated discussion ahead of the tournament. Earlier this month, Iran’s ambassador to Mexico indicated that the team would only be permitted to enter the United States on matchdays and would be required to leave shortly after each game.
The situation comes against the backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions between Iran and the United States. Iran’s participation in the World Cup has attracted significant attention following recent conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel, which raised concerns about travel and security arrangements for the tournament.
Despite the uncertainty, Iran’s focus remains on football as they prepare for their opening match. The team will be aiming to make a strong start in Group G and secure valuable points against New Zealand as they pursue a place in the knockout stages.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday that progress had been made toward a settlement aimed at ending the conflict, adding that an agreement could be reached in the coming days.
For now, Iran’s World Cup preparations continue in Mexico, with the squad looking to put off-field issues aside and focus on their challenge at football’s biggest tournament.
