Italy’s repechage to the World Cup, a very clear message comes from the Mexicans

Although the start of the World Cup is just over ten days away, Iran’s participation is in doubt. Tensions between Tehran and Washington are running high and peace talks between the two countries are proceeding slowly. The situation could affect soccer as well.

Team Melli was supposed to stay in Arizona but was moved to Mexico, and Club Tijuana sent a very clear message: “With great pride we announce that we have received notification from FIFA that Tijuana will be part of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the official retreat of the National Team of Iran.”

“Tijuana is a city of open doors, welcoming and hospitable; a city that embraces the world through its culture, its people and its passion for sports. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will also be experienced in Lower California and we are ready to welcome fans and enthusiasts from all over the world, to showcase the soul and identity of our borderland and to demonstrate why Tijuana is an international landmark today, on and off the field,” the official note reads.

FIFA and Gianni Infantino are trying to mediate between the Iranian soccer federation and the United States but there are still some hurdles to overcome. In recent weeks Iran has communicated a dozen necessary conditions that the United States is not convinced it wants to accept.