Tension and Support Surround Iran’s World Cup Journey in Tijuana

Less than 150 miles from Los Angeles, the Iran national soccer team resides at the Marriott in Tijuana, Mexico. The hotel stands under tight security, protected by police and Mexican National Guard members. Entry is restricted to guests with reservations or special permission.

Despite the challenges surrounding Iran’s World Cup participation, the atmosphere at the hotel is surprisingly spirited. Fans gather to support the team before their second group-stage match. Among them is 13-year-old Lucas Zarrabi, who came to cheer when the team exited the building.

Lucas is one of many fans traveling from Los Angeles and other U.S. cities like San Jose and Miami. They cross the border to support a team facing what they see as unfair conditions. The outbreak of war forced Iran to move its base camp from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana. The U.S. denied visas to 11 team officials and staff, also imposing strict travel conditions.

Abbas Eftekhari, who has lived in the U.S. for over 40 years, expressed concerns. He believes the harsh conditions affect the team’s mental and physical well-being. The Iran Football Federation plans to file a complaint with FIFA. Secretary-General Hedayat Mombeini emphasized the negative impact of politics on sports, urging for Iranian pride to overcome these challenges.

Ali Eslami frequently visits the hotel gates, showing his support. With the players training nearby at Estadio Caliente, he expressed his emotional connection to the team. Similarly, some fans fear backlash from the diaspora but insist their support is driven by a love for soccer.

Eftekhari also noted that clashes between fans and protesters could affect the players’ morale. The support extends beyond Iranian fans. A group of Chinese flight attendants at the hotel joins the excitement, showing solidarity with scarves and jester hats in Iran’s colors. Tijuana’s local soccer fans offer hospitality and passion for the matches.

Iran’s ambassador to Mexico, Abolfazl Pasandideh, had hoped the matches could be relocated to a country with diplomatic ties to Iran. Mexico was a preferred option, reflecting the goodwill between nations.

Ten-year-old Leonardo Ramirez Lopez eagerly waits for player autographs. Enthralled by soccer, he ranks Iran among his favorite teams, despite little experience with their style of play.

Anticipation builds as fans wait over two hours for the players to pass through the lobby. The players show appreciation, stopping for autographs and sharing smiles. Each kisses a Quran before boarding a bus to the airport as fans chant in support.