In their three weeks in Tijuana, Iran’s players established a reciprocal relationship of love and respect with Mexicans.
Iran’s World Cup campaign, marked by logistical challenges and political tensions, took a positive turn in Mexico, where the men’s national team left their Tijuana base to a warm farewell from local supporters.
The team exited the tournament on Saturday following a late equaliser from Austria against Algeria that left Iran outside the top eight best third‑placed teams.
The performance came after a tense 24‑hour period, including a 1‑1 draw with Egypt on Friday that ended in controversy when an Iranian goal was overturned by VAR for offside.
The geopolitical situation, particularly the conflict involving the United States and Israel, heavily influenced the logistical arrangements for Team Melli at the 2026 World Cup.
Shortly before the tournament, Iran moved its camp from Arizona to Tijuana due to visa concerns. Under tight logistical constraints, the squad had to head to Mexico immediately after each match in the United States, even though they had repeatedly requested to avoid playing in a country at war with them.
From their first day in Tijuana, the team was embraced by Mexican supporters. Fans gathered around the hotel before and after every group‑stage match, waving posters and seeking autographs from the players.
Fans bid farewell to the Iranian national team players outside their hotel in Tijuana, Mexico, 14 June 2026. Hundreds of Iranian fans gathered near the hotel where the team is staying in the Mexican city of Tijuana to see them off before their trip to the United States, where they will play their first World Cup match against New Zealand. EPA/Joebeth Terriquez
Hope Our Paths Cross Again
The affection and respect cultivated over three weeks resonated online, garnering worldwide support for Team Melli amid their off‑pitch challenges.
On social media, the team’s media office publicly expressed gratitude to the Mexican people for their hospitality.
“Thank you for your professionalism, your support, and for covering not only our team’s sporting journey but also the unfair and unsportsmanlike treatment our delegation faced during its stay.” – Embassy of Iran in Mexico on X.
“Your commitment to reporting the facts accurately and with integrity meant a great deal to us.”
The message extended specific thanks to the residents of Tijuana, who welcomed the team with “generosity and genuine hospitality that made us feel right at home”.
“For all of us, leaving Tijuana is truly difficult. The memories we built here, the friendships we forged, and the affection we received will forever remain in the hearts of every member of the Iranian National Team. Thank you, and we hope our paths cross again.”
You’re Mexican Now
Social‑media videos captured the Iranian squad touring Tijuana, signing World Cup balls, collecting Panini sticker books, and posing for photos with fans.
Iran’s ambassador to Mexico, Abolfazl Pasandideh, along with FFIRI secretary‑general Hedayat Mombeini, met with supporters and media over the weekend to thank Mexico for its hospitality.
The Iranian embassy in Sarajevo likewise thanked Mexico for its gracious hosting and highlighted the United States’ mistreatment of the team.
“FIFA should exercise greater care in selecting future host nations, ensuring they are worthy hosts and committed to humanitarian principles,” the post on X read.
Users on social media, moved by the growing bond between the two nations, wished Mexico a strong tournament run backed by Iranian fans.
The farewell was punctuated on Iran’s departure day, when fans wearing baseball hats emblazoned with “Iran, brother, you’re Mexican now” lined the hotel’s perimeter to bid the team adieu.
