Iran sets World Cup travel date following visa delay

Field Level Media|published: Wed 3rd June, 14:07 2026

Nov 29, 2022; Doha, Qatar; Iran defender Abolfazl Jalali (25) dribbles the ball against the United States of America during the second half of a group stage match during the 2022 World Cup at Al Thumama Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-Imagn Images

Despite visa delays, the Iranian national team will travel to Mexico this weekend to prepare for the World Cup.

Iran's participation in this summer's tournament in North America has been in some doubt since the United States and Israel launched airstrikes against the nation in late February.

Iran announced last month that it was moving its World Cup base camp from Tucson, Ariz., to Tijuana, Mexico.

Iran football federation chief Mehdi Taj told Iranian TV that he expects the issues receiving visas for Mexico and the U.S. to be resolved "quickly," per USA Today.

The Iranian team has been training in Turkey, where it will play a final tune-up friendly on Thursday against Mali.

Iran is in Group G for the World Cup along with Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand. Its opening match will be against New Zealand on June 15 in Inglewood, Calif., before playing Belgium on June 21 (Inglewood) and Egypt on June 26 (Seattle).

--Field Level Media