Italy’s repechage to the World Cup? In Mexico they had long taken a position

Until the last few days before the kickoff, some continued to nurture hopes of Italy’s repechage to the 2026 World Cup, abetted by the very delicate visa issue that had especially involved Iran, which was grappling with extremely tense diplomatic relations with the United States. An affair that had fueled scenarios, hypotheses and discussions, but that had never really shaken the conviction of those on the other side of the continent who were certain of Iran’s presence at the World Cup.

Mexico, in this context, helped the Iranian national team in no small way, not only convinced of Team Melli’s participation, but even ready to offer itself as a base of operations for the national team led by Coach Amir Ghalenoei. The proposal had been accepted: the Iranian team thus chose Tijuana, in Mexican territory, as its base, moving to the United States exclusively for matches, avoiding any extended stay.

The Iranian national team was welcomed in Baja California with warmth and curiosity, amid choruses and banners. The most recurrent one, which has gone viral on social media, is a surprisingly affectionate “Vamos Iran.” A clear signal of how, at least in Mexico, there were no doubts or fears about the Middle Eastern selection’s participation.

While in Italy regulations, precedents, FIFA and U.S. government positions and possible loopholes were discussed, the line on the other side of the world, albeit with many difficulties, was definitely drawn: Iran will participate in the World Cup and Mexico is ready to support it logistically and symbolically.