PIMA COUNTY, Ariz. (KVOA) – Iran has moved its World Cup training site from Kino Sports Complex to Tijuana, Mexico, according to FIFA officials.
FIFA notified Pima County Stadium District Director Sarah Hanna on Monday that IR Iran relocated its training basecamp for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. The team was originally scheduled to train at Kino Sports Complex for three weeks in June.
“While we are of course disappointed, the amount of collaboration with our partners and the planning that went into this reinforces that Pima County and Kino Sports Complex have the ability to host events of this magnitude,” Hanna said.
Pima County Board of Supervisors Chair Jen Allen said the county was proud to have been selected by FIFA as a World Cup training facility. The county was ready and willing to host Iran for the three-week period.
“Sport can often be a source of diplomacy, and our community was ready to show that even when nations are in conflict, it’s possible to pause and be welcoming, hospitable, and respectful through sport,” Allen said. “Sport is a great unifier, and we hope for nothing but success for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in North America and that it will show we all have more in common with one another than we do differences.”
Visit Tucson President and CEO Felipe Garcia said FIFA choosing Kino Sports Complex as a training site brought global attention to the region. Regional partners remain committed to supporting events that showcase Southern Arizona as a premier destination for sports, tourism and international engagement.
“Major international events require flexibility and coordination across many levels, and we appreciate the collaboration we had with FIFA, local organizers, and public safety partners during the planning efforts,” Garcia said. “We echo Pima County’s sentiments and are incredibly proud of how our entire community came together in preparation for serving as a FIFA World Cup base camp.”
