FIFA is considering a symbolic fixture between Israel and Palestine as the inaugural match of a new global Under-15 tournament scheduled to take place in the United States this September. While the event is not being branded as an official Under-15 World Cup, it will be open to all 211 FIFA member associations, including Russia, whose senior national teams continue to be suspended from international competition.&nbsp;The tournament was unveiled by FIFA in December and the organisation is reportedly planning a high-profile opening encounter. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has often said that football can help bring people together and promote peace and understanding between countries. An Israel-Palestine match could reflect that idea.&nbsp;Infantino’s efforts to encourage cooperation between the two football associations faced a setback during FIFA’s Congress in Vancouver in April.&nbsp;&nbsp;An attempt to arrange a public handshake between representatives from Palestine and Israel did not succeed when Palestinian Football Association president Jibril Rajoub declined to stand alongside Israel Football Association vice-president Basim Sheikh Suliman, despite repeated appeals from the FIFA president.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/history-repeats-after-68-years-fifa-world-cup-2026-sees-four-draws-in-a-single-day-1781614027582">History repeats after 68 years: FIFA World Cup 2026 sees four draws in a single day</a>&nbsp;This experience does not seem to have stopped Gianni Infantino from trying to act as a peacemaker. Sources also indicate that a proposal to have Israel and Palestine contest the opening match of the Under-15 competition remains under active discussion.&nbsp;Although the host venue has yet to be officially announced, Miami is widely viewed as the leading candidate, particularly given FIFA’s significant operational presence in the city.&nbsp;The inaugural edition will feature boys’ teams, with a corresponding girls’ tournament expected to follow the next year. FIFA ultimately intends to establish separate annual boys’ and girls’ festivals beginning in 2028.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ecstasy-all-over-what-happened-the-last-time-lionel-messi-featured-in-a-fifa-world-cup-game-argentina-beat-france-in-qatar-1781609262272">What happened the last time Messi featured in a FIFA World Cup game?</a>&nbsp;Addressing delegates, Infantino emphasised that both Israel and Palestine are equal members of FIFA, sharing the same rights and responsibilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Let me thank the two representatives from Israel and from Palestine, who have the same rights, duties and obligations, who are members of Fifa,” Infantino said. “We will work together, let’s work together to give hope to the children, let’s work together for that.&nbsp;“We have a beautiful under‑15 tournament coming up, where we will invite all 211 countries to participate, all the children of the world, let’s do it for that. Let’s work together. You have my commitment, you have the support of the whole room.”

FIFA is reportedly planning an Israel-Palestine match as the opening fixture of its new Under-15 youth football festival, scheduled to take place in the United States in September.

FIFA is considering a symbolic fixture between Israel and Palestine as the inaugural match of a new global Under-15 tournament scheduled to take place in the United States this September. While the event is not being branded as an official Under-15 World Cup, it will be open to all 211 FIFA member associations, including Russia, whose senior national teams continue to be suspended from international competition. The tournament was unveiled by FIFA in December and the organisation is reportedly planning a high-profile opening encounter. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has often said that football can help bring people together and promote peace and understanding between countries. An Israel-Palestine match could reflect that idea. Infantino’s efforts to encourage cooperation between the two football associations faced a setback during FIFA’s Congress in Vancouver in April. An attempt to arrange a public handshake between representatives from Palestine and Israel did not succeed when Palestinian Football Association president Jibril Rajoub declined to stand alongside Israel Football Association vice-president Basim Sheikh Suliman, despite repeated appeals from the FIFA president. Also Read - History repeats after 68 years: FIFA World Cup 2026 sees four draws in a single day This experience does not seem to have stopped Gianni Infantino from trying to act as a peacemaker. Sources also indicate that a proposal to have Israel and Palestine contest the opening match of the Under-15 competition remains under active discussion. Although the host venue has yet to be officially announced, Miami is widely viewed as the leading candidate, particularly given FIFA’s significant operational presence in the city. The inaugural edition will feature boys’ teams, with a corresponding girls’ tournament expected to follow the next year. FIFA ultimately intends to establish separate annual boys’ and girls’ festivals beginning in 2028. Also Read - What happened the last time Messi featured in a FIFA World Cup game? Addressing delegates, Infantino emphasised that both Israel and Palestine are equal members of FIFA, sharing the same rights and responsibilities. “Let me thank the two representatives from Israel and from Palestine, who have the same rights, duties and obligations, who are members of Fifa,” Infantino said. “We will work together, let’s work together to give hope to the children, let’s work together for that. “We have a beautiful under‑15 tournament coming up, where we will invite all 211 countries to participate, all the children of the world, let’s do it for that. Let’s work together. You have my commitment, you have the support of the whole room.”

FIFA is reportedly planning an Israel-Palestine match as the opening fixture of its new Under-15 youth football festival, scheduled to take place in the United States in September.

FIFA plans Israel-Palestine opener for new U-15 tournament

Egypt's search for a first-ever FIFA World Cup victory continues after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Belgium. Despite showing resilience and determination, the Pharaohs were unable to secure the historic breakthrough they have long awaited on football's biggest stage. Belgium, boosted by the immediate impact of Romelu Lukaku, managed to earn a share of the points. Egypt will now turn its focus to a crucial clash against New Zealand, while Belgium prepare to face Iran in Los Angeles.


FIFA WC 2026: Egypt Still Chasing Historic World Cup Win After Belgium Stalemate 

Tunisia have dismissed their head coach in the middle of the FIFA World Cup 2026, following a disappointing start to their campaign.
The decision comes amid growing pressure after the team's poor performances in the tournament.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Tunisia Sack Head Coach In Middle Of FIFA World Cup

Portugal begin their World Cup campaign with a high-stakes opener against DR Congo, as all eyes turn to Cristiano Ronaldo chasing a record sixth World Cup appearance. The team, which reached the quarter-finals in 2022, enters the tournament with strong expectations and renewed ambition. Fans are eager to see whether Portugal can go deeper this time, with experienced leadership and a balanced squad aiming to make a serious title push on the global stage.


FIFA WC 2026: Portugal Launch World Cup Campaign as Ronaldo Eyes Record Sixth Appearance

Sweden delivered one of the most dominant performances of the tournament so far, thrashing Tunisia 5-1 in Monterrey, Mexico. Midfielder Yasin Ayari starred with a brilliant brace as Sweden's attack overwhelmed their opponents from start to finish. The emphatic victory showcased the quality of Sweden's squad, including several players with Premier League experience, and marked another important step in their resurgence after missing out on the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The result sends a strong message to the rest of the competition.


FIFA WC 2026: Ayari's Double Powers Sweden to Stunning 5-1 Victory Over Tunisia

The 2026 World Cup format expansion to 48 teams undeniably gives Iran one of its most realistic mathematical paths to reaching the knockout stages. By increasing the total number of teams and introducing the Round of 32, finishing third in the group—or even grabbing a strong second-place finish—becomes much more attainable.


FIFA World Cup 2026: Iran Has Been Crowned Asian Football Champions Thrice

Germany kick off their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign against tournament debutants Curacao in a fascinating Group E encounter. While Germany enter the competition as one of football's traditional powerhouses, Curacao are preparing for the biggest moment in their football history. For the Caribbean nation, simply reaching the World Cup is a remarkable achievement, but they will dream of causing a major upset against four-time champions Germany as their historic journey begins on football's grandest stage.


FIFA World Cup 2026: Curacao Is The Smallest Nation To Qualify For World Cup

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup gets underway, players are chasing football's biggest prize. But the iconic World Cup trophy is now worth more than ever before.


FIFA World Cup 2026: FIFA Trophy Now Worth Over $700,000

FIFA World Cup 2026: Germany Face Historic Curacao Debut In Opener

Australia produced one of the biggest surprises of the tournament with a commanding 2-0 victory over Turkey in Vancouver. The win propels the Socceroos into second place in Group D and boosts their hopes of advancing further. Young star Nestory Irankunda grabbed the headlines with a dazzling performance, opening the scoring and constantly troubling the Turkish defence. Despite entering the match as underdogs, Australia delivered a disciplined and energetic display to secure a memorable result.


FIFA WC 2026: Australia Shock Turkey 2-0 in Vancouver as Irankunda Inspires Stunning Upset 

Traditionally, the world cup may have offered a welcome reprieve from global uncertainty and heavy headlines. Still, there are moments when even the world’s most popular distraction falls short. In this next report, we dive into the global economic outlook as the near-closure of the Strait of Hormuz plays into extra time and central banks grapple with the fallout.


Can World Cup Euphoria Outrun the Global Storm? 

The No. 10 shirt is football's most iconic jersey, worn by some of the greatest players in World Cup history. From Pelé and Diego Maradona to Zinedine Zidane and Lionel Messi, the number has become synonymous with creativity, leadership, and brilliance on the biggest stage.


The Legend of No. 10: From Pele to Messi, Football's Greatest Icons

It was a night Canadian football fans will never forget. Playing in front of a passionate home crowd in Toronto, Canada, secured its first-ever point as a World Cup host nation with a dramatic 1-1 draw against Bosnia. Just when defeat seemed likely, Cyle Larin stepped up with a crucial late equaliser, sending the stadium into celebration. 


FIFA WC 2026: Canada Draw 1-1 In Home World Cup Debut 

What started as a simple passion for football has grown into an extraordinary collection of more than 6,000 jerseys. Two friends from Croatia have spent years gathering shirts from clubs, national teams and historic tournaments, creating a unique archive that tells the story of the world's most popular sport. 


FIFA WC 2026: Croatian Friends Build Stunning Archive of Over 6,000 Football Jerseys

South Korea kick off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Czechia in a fascinating opening clash. All eyes will be on captain Son Heung-min as he prepares for his fourth World Cup appearance, bringing experience and leadership to the Korean side. Meanwhile, Czechia return to football's biggest stage for the first time since 2006, eager to make a statement after a 20-year wait. 

FIFA World Cup 2026: South Korea Make Strong Start To FIFA World Cup 2026 

New York City is embracing FIFA World Cup 2026 fever with celebrations across the city. Fans from around the world have gathered to enjoy the atmosphere and football festivities. Public events, fan zones, and football-themed activities are drawing huge crowds

FIFA World Cup 2026: New York City Pays Tribute To Football Icon

FIFA World Cup Trophy’s Gold Value Soars 157%

South Korea kick off their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Czechia in a fascinating opening clash. All eyes will be on captain Son Heung-min as he prepares for his fourth World Cup appearance, bringing experience and leadership to the Korean side. Meanwhile, Czechia return to football's biggest stage for the first time since 2006, eager to make a statement after a 20-year wait. 


FIFA WC 2026: South Korea Begins World Cup Campaign Against Returning Czechia

Every World Cup creates new heroes, and the 2026 tournament is packed with exciting young talent ready to make their mark. Mexico's 17-year-old Gilberto Mora arrives as the youngest player at the World Cup, while Côte d'Ivoire-born Yan Diomande is being tipped for a major breakthrough. Turkey's creative force Kenan Yildiz, continues to impress on the biggest stages, and Argentina's Nico Paz has already drawn comparisons to Lionel Messi. 


FIFA WC 2026: Meet The Young Stars Ready To Shine In 2026 

A growing global presence of Indian-origin footballers will be seen at the upcoming World Cup, with four players expected to feature across different national squads. Among them is Tahsin Mohammed Jamshid, who has been named in Qatar’s 26-member squad. Their inclusion highlights the increasing diversity in international football and the expanding footprint of players with Indian heritage on the world stage. Fans will be watching closely as they represent their adopted nations in football’s biggest tournament.


4 Indian-Origin Players Set to Feature in FIFA World Cup Squads Across Nations

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will introduce several important rule changes that could significantly impact matches. From expanded VAR reviews and semi-automated offside technology to stricter regulations on player conduct, referees will have more tools than ever to enforce the laws of the game. One of the most talked-about changes involves potential disciplinary action for players who cover their mouths during certain interactions on the pitch.


FIFA World Cup 2026: The New Rules Every Football Fan Must Know

Iranian football fans are eagerly looking forward to FIFA World Cup 2026.
Despite the challenges of ongoing conflict, enthusiasm for the tournament remains strong. Supporters across the country are rallying behind their national team. Football continues to offer hope, unity and moments of joy during uncertain times.

FIFA 2026: Iran Fans Super Excited For Football Despite The Ongoing War

Across all 16 World Cup venues, FIFA’s pitch experts have spent years trying to make 16 new fields in three countries feel like one playing surface.


FIFA Installs Hybrid Pitches to Ensure Uniformity Across All WC Venues 

Vancouver's iconic Science World has undergone a spectacular transformation ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The city's famous geodesic dome has been wrapped to resemble a giant 40-metre Adidas Trionda match ball, creating a striking new landmark on the city's skyline.

Dubbed the "Beautiful Dome," the installation is set to serve as the centerpiece of Vancouver's summer-long football and science celebrations as Canada gears up to co-host the biggest FIFA World Cup in history. The project highlights the growing excitement surrounding the tournament and the fusion of sport, culture and innovation.

2026 FIFA World Cup: Vancouver's Science World Transformed Into the Match Ball 

The 2026 FIFA world cup is set to be the biggest in the tournament's history. Hosted jointly by the United States, Canada and Mexico,
The competition will feature 48 national teams across 16 cities.

 FIFA World Cup 2026: Will FIFA 2026 Deliver A Mega Economic Boost? 

Zee Entertainment Enterprises has secured the Indian television and digital media rights for 39 FIFA events scheduled between 2026 and 2034, significantly strengthening its presence in the sports broadcasting. The portfolio includes marquee tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup 2026, FIFA World Cup 2030 and the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027. The agreement marks FIFA’s first media-rights partnership with Zee and extends beyond senior international competitions to include a wide range of youth and futsal events for both men and women.&nbsp;&nbsp;Among the events covered under the deal are the FIFA U-17 Men’s and Women’s World Cups, FIFA U-20 Men’s and Women’s World Cups, FIFA Futsal World Cups for men and women and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup through 2030.&nbsp;Coverage is set to begin with the opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on June 11.&nbsp;The tournaments will be available across Zee’s newly launched sports channels, Unite8 Sports 1 and Unite8 Sports 1 HD in Hindi and Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD in English, as well as on its streaming platform, ZEE5.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-rcb-cancels-victory-parade-amid-security-and-crowd-management-concerns-1780308593561">IPL 2026: RCB cancels victory parade amid security and crowd management concerns</a>&nbsp;Commenting on the development, Zee CEO Punit Goenka said that the company is looking forward to bringing one of the world’s most-followed sporting events to viewers across India.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We are excited to bring one of the world's biggest sporting spectacles to Indian audiences," Punit Goenka, CEO of Zee Entertainment Enterprises, said&nbsp;"Football cuts across regions and demographics, and the investments in garnering the media rights and launching dedicated sports channels reflect our clear belief in its long-term potential."&nbsp;FIFA Chief Business Officer Romy Gai described India as a strategically important market, citing its large base of young and enthusiastic football fans.&nbsp;The deal comes after prolonged negotiations over broadcast rights in India. Industry reports had indicated that FIFA initially sought around $100 million for the 2026 and 2030 World Cups before reducing its expectations to roughly $60 million. While JioStar reportedly submitted a lower bid and Sony later exited the race, the financial terms of the final agreement with Zee remain undisclosed.&nbsp;Mukund Galgali, Zee’s Deputy CEO and CFO, said football remains an underexplored opportunity in India and that the company sees significant scope to expand the sport’s reach among audiences nationwide.&nbsp;With Unite8 Sports already carrying cricket, kabaddi, badminton, wrestling and combat sports, the FIFA partnership represents a major step in Zee’s efforts to diversify its sports portfolio. The 2026 FIFA World Cup is expected to be a key milestone in establishing the broadcaster’s football credentials in a market traditionally dominated by cricket.

With Unite8 Sports already carrying cricket, kabaddi, badminton, wrestling and combat sports, the FIFA partnership represents a major step in Zee’s efforts to diversify its sports portfolio.

Zee Entertainment Enterprises has secured the Indian television and digital media rights for 39 FIFA events scheduled between 2026 and 2034, significantly strengthening its presence in the sports broadcasting. The portfolio includes marquee tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup 2026, FIFA World Cup 2030 and the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027. The agreement marks FIFA’s first media-rights partnership with Zee and extends beyond senior international competitions to include a wide range of youth and futsal events for both men and women. Among the events covered under the deal are the FIFA U-17 Men’s and Women’s World Cups, FIFA U-20 Men’s and Women’s World Cups, FIFA Futsal World Cups for men and women and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup through 2030. Coverage is set to begin with the opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on June 11. The tournaments will be available across Zee’s newly launched sports channels, Unite8 Sports 1 and Unite8 Sports 1 HD in Hindi and Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD in English, as well as on its streaming platform, ZEE5. Also Read - IPL 2026: RCB cancels victory parade amid security and crowd management concerns Commenting on the development, Zee CEO Punit Goenka said that the company is looking forward to bringing one of the world’s most-followed sporting events to viewers across India. "We are excited to bring one of the world's biggest sporting spectacles to Indian audiences," Punit Goenka, CEO of Zee Entertainment Enterprises, said "Football cuts across regions and demographics, and the investments in garnering the media rights and launching dedicated sports channels reflect our clear belief in its long-term potential." FIFA Chief Business Officer Romy Gai described India as a strategically important market, citing its large base of young and enthusiastic football fans. The deal comes after prolonged negotiations over broadcast rights in India. Industry reports had indicated that FIFA initially sought around $100 million for the 2026 and 2030 World Cups before reducing its expectations to roughly $60 million. While JioStar reportedly submitted a lower bid and Sony later exited the race, the financial terms of the final agreement with Zee remain undisclosed. Mukund Galgali, Zee’s Deputy CEO and CFO, said football remains an underexplored opportunity in India and that the company sees significant scope to expand the sport’s reach among audiences nationwide. With Unite8 Sports already carrying cricket, kabaddi, badminton, wrestling and combat sports, the FIFA partnership represents a major step in Zee’s efforts to diversify its sports portfolio. The 2026 FIFA World Cup is expected to be a key milestone in establishing the broadcaster’s football credentials in a market traditionally dominated by cricket.

With Unite8 Sports already carrying cricket, kabaddi, badminton, wrestling and combat sports, the FIFA partnership represents a major step in Zee’s efforts to diversify its sports portfolio.

Zee bags right to broadcast FIFA World Cup matches in India

New York Attorney General Letitia James and New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport have officially subpoenaed FIFA, launching a joint investigation into the organization’s ticketing practices for the 2026 World Cup.


New Jersey & New York Attorney General Issue Subpoena to FIFA 

From AI reshaping Hollywood to the changing rules at major award platforms, this episode of WION E-Club explores how technology is transforming the entertainment industry. We also revisit the legacy of the iconic 'James Bond' actors as the search for the next 007 continues. Plus, Colombian popstar Shakira gears up for the FIFA World Cup with a brand-new anthem. Grogu, Baby Groot, and other beloved screen characters continue to dominate pop culture and merchandising. The episode also takes a closer look at the bold new trends redefining menswear on global runways.

 AI in Hollywood to James Bond legacy: Inside this week's entertainment buzz | WION E-Club

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Monday (May 25) that her administration has agreed to host Iran’s team in Mexico during the upcoming FIFA World Cup after the United States reportedly declined to accommodate the squad for the duration of the tournament. According to Sheinbaum, world football governing body FIFA contacted Mexican authorities following the US decision, even though Iran is scheduled to play all three of its group-stage matches on American soil.&nbsp;Speaking at her daily press briefing, Sheinbaum said Mexico saw no justification for preventing the Iranian team from remaining in the country during the competition.&nbsp;Neither the White House nor the US State Department immediately commented on the matter.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-here-to-defend-rajat-patidar-confident-ahead-of-rcb-s-qualifier-1-clash-1779723017243">'Not here to defend...': Rajat Patidar confident ahead of RCB’s Qualifier 1 clash</a>&nbsp;On Saturday, Mehdi Taj, president of Iran’s football federation, confirmed that the team’s training base would shift from Arizona to the border city of Tijuana for the tournament. He said the relocation would simplify visa procedures and allow the squad to travel directly to Mexico on Iran Air flights.&nbsp;Iran’s participation in the World Cup had faced uncertainty following military strikes launched by the United States and Israel against Iran in late February.&nbsp;Iran opens its Group G campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on Jun 15, followed by a match against Belgium on Jun 21. The team will then take on Egypt in Seattle on Jun 26.<h2>How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India</h2>You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches that take place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds.All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website (<a href="https://www.zee5.com/">https://www.zee5.com/</a>).

The Iranian team’s participation in the Jun 11-Jul 19 tournament had been uncertain after the US and Israel carried out strikes on Iran in late February, escalating regional tensions and raising doubts over their involvement.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Monday (May 25) that her administration has agreed to host Iran’s team in Mexico during the upcoming FIFA World Cup after the United States reportedly declined to accommodate the squad for the duration of the tournament. According to Sheinbaum, world football governing body FIFA contacted Mexican authorities following the US decision, even though Iran is scheduled to play all three of its group-stage matches on American soil. Speaking at her daily press briefing, Sheinbaum said Mexico saw no justification for preventing the Iranian team from remaining in the country during the competition. Neither the White House nor the US State Department immediately commented on the matter. Also Read - 'Not here to defend...': Rajat Patidar confident ahead of RCB’s Qualifier 1 clash On Saturday, Mehdi Taj, president of Iran’s football federation, confirmed that the team’s training base would shift from Arizona to the border city of Tijuana for the tournament. He said the relocation would simplify visa procedures and allow the squad to travel directly to Mexico on Iran Air flights. Iran’s participation in the World Cup had faced uncertainty following military strikes launched by the United States and Israel against Iran in late February. Iran opens its Group G campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on Jun 15, followed by a match against Belgium on Jun 21. The team will then take on Egypt in Seattle on Jun 26. How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches that take place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds. All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website (https://www.zee5.com/).

The Iranian team’s participation in the Jun 11-Jul 19 tournament had been uncertain after the US and Israel carried out strikes on Iran in late February, escalating regional tensions and raising doubts over their involvement.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Iran’s World Cup team to stay in Mexico following US refusal

Iran have officially moved their training camp for the FIFA World Cup 2026 from the United States to Mexico due to ongoing visa complications and security concerns ahead of the tournament. The decision was confirmed by Iran Football Federation president Mehdi Taj, who said FIFA approved the change following a series of discussions with tournament organisers and federation officials.&nbsp;Iran had initially selected Tucson in Arizona, as their training camp, however, rising tensions in the Middle East and uncertainty surrounding travel and entry procedures prompted the federation to opt for an alternative safer location.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The Iran FA is changing their World Cup training camp to Tijuana, Mexico - just across the California border from Tucson, Arizona due to visa issues. President Mehdi Taj confirmed that Iran will play matches in the U.S., but leave right after. <a href="https://t.co/hCwQvP4Me5">pic.twitter.com/hCwQvP4Me5</a>&mdash; Ben Steiner (@BenSteiner00) <a href="https://twitter.com/BenSteiner00/status/2058302079165214897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The national team will now be based in Tijuana in Mexico, near the US border south of San Diego, during the World Cup, which is set to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from Jun 11 to Jul 19, 2026.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-video-lucknow-police-take-swift-action-after-fans-harass-cheerleaders-during-lsg-pbks-match-1779612124188">WATCH | Lucknow police take swift action after fans harass cheerleaders during LSG-PBKS match</a>&nbsp;In the official statement, Taj stated that all participating nations must receive FIFA approval for their training bases and noted that Iran’s request was accepted after meetings with FIFA and World Cup officials in Istanbul, along with a virtual discussion held in Tehran with FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom.&nbsp;&nbsp;“All team base camps for the countries participating in the World Cup must be approved by FIFA," Taj said in a statement released by the federation.&nbsp;“Fortunately, following the requests we submitted and the meetings we held with FIFA and World Cup officials in Istanbul, as well as the webinar meeting we had yesterday in Tehran with the respected FIFA secretary general, our request to change the team’s base from the United States to Mexico was approved."&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-playoff-qualification-scenarios-how-can-pbks-rr-kkr-qualify-for-top-four-1779606647681">Playoff Qualification Scenarios: How can PBKS, RR, or KKR qualify for top four?</a>&nbsp;The move is expected to solve several logistical challenges for Iran, particularly visa-related issues. Iranian officials had previously acknowledged that players and staff were still awaiting US visas with less than a month remaining before the competition begins.&nbsp;Under the revised arrangement, Iran will travel to the United States only for matches before returning to Mexico immediately afterward.&nbsp;Iran are scheduled to face New Zealand in Los Angeles on Jun 15, Belgium in Los Angeles on Jun 21 and Egypt in Seattle on Jun 26.&nbsp;Taj also revealed that the federation had requested assurances from FIFA regarding visa processing, security measures and the overall treatment of the Iranian delegation throughout the tournament.&nbsp;The 2026 edition will mark Iran’s fourth consecutive FIFA World Cup appearance and their seventh overall, though the team has yet to advance beyond the group stage.<h2>How to watch and stream FIFA World Cup 2026 in India</h2>You can watch FIFA 2026 on Zee’s new Unite8 Sports network (Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2 and Unite8 Sports 2 HD). Multiple group-stage matches that take place simultaneously will be aired across the four channels with English and Hindi feeds.All games will also be streamed live on the Zee5 app and website (<a href="https://www.zee5.com/">https://www.zee5.com/</a>).

Iran have relocated their World Cup 2026 camp from the United States to Tijuana after FIFA approved the request, according to federation chief Mehdi Taj. The switch allows the team to remain close to its group-stage matches in US while addressing ongoing security and political concerns.

Iran have officially moved their training camp for the FIFA World Cup 2026 from the United States to Mexico due to ongoing visa complications and security concerns ahead of the tournament. The decision was confirmed by Iran Football Federation president Mehdi Taj, who said FIFA approved the change following a series of discussions with tournament organisers and federation officials. Iran had initially selected Tucson in Arizona, as their training camp, however, rising tensions in the Middle East and uncertainty surrounding travel and entry procedures prompted the federation to opt for an alternative safer location.

Iran have relocated their World Cup 2026 camp from the United States to Tijuana after FIFA approved the request, according to federation chief Mehdi Taj. The switch allows the team to remain close to its group-stage matches in US while addressing ongoing security and political concerns.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Iran shift training camp from US to Mexico ahead of kickoff

Five-time Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo is all set to appear at a record sixth FIFA World Cup after he was included in the 27-man Portugal squad for next month's showpiece in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Ronaldo has never won the FIFA World Cup.


Cristiano Ronaldo's Final Attempt To Win the FIFA World Cup?

fifa

Fifa, News on Fifa, stories on Fifa, articles on Fifa, Fifa stories at Wion, Fifa news, Fifa latest news