Tijuana: How the Iran team's World Cup base city lives during the tournament

Tijuana, serving as the base for the Iranian national team during the 2026 World Cup, remains one of the most contrasting places on the planet. Best known for the border wall separating it from the United States, the city has found itself at the heart of football attention, even though no official tournament matches are hosted there.

Locals and experts point out that despite its reputation as one of the world's most dangerous cities, the reality of Tijuana is far more complex. Jean-François Piché, founder of the local Alliance Française, notes that violence in the city is highly targeted, and the presence of police and military has become part of daily routine. The city continues to grow in a somewhat chaotic manner, evolving into a unique "third nation" at the intersection of two worlds.

For fans and residents, the tournament has become a reason to come together. A "Baja Fut Fest" was organized on the iconic Avenida Revolucion, and the placement of the Iranian team at the Caliente Stadium has given the city a special sense of participation in the festivities. Despite the border wall, Tijuana and neighboring San Diego remain inextricably linked economically and socially, with thousands crossing the San Ysidro port of entry daily.

While diplomatic agencies often classify Tijuana as a high-risk zone, daily life around the Iranian training camp proceeds without a palpable sense of danger. The city remains a unique example of how global sporting events can coexist with the challenges of border life.