Jorge Hank Rhon, president of Grupo Caliente, said he hopes Tijuana can provide adequate security for Iran’s national soccer team, which FIFA confirmed will use Centro Xoloitzcuintle as its base camp during the 2026 World Cup. The National Guard has already reinforced all entrances to Estadio Caliente, Hank Rhon said, with multiple government agencies coordinating the security operation.
Iran’s base camp was relocated from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana after the United States refused to allow the team to stay overnight on American soil. FIFA announced the switch on May 26, listing Centro Xoloitzcuintle, home of Liga MX club Club Tijuana (Xolos), as Iran’s official headquarters for the tournament.
Multi-Agency Security Operation at the Stadium
Hank Rhon said the security plan covers every access point at the stadium complex. The operation involves coordination between federal, state, and local agencies, though he did not specify exact troop numbers or which additional forces are involved beyond the National Guard.
Iran’s ambassador to Mexico, Abolfazl Pasandideh, visited Tijuana on May 30 to inspect the team’s new base. President Claudia Sheinbaum said a FIFA representative had asked whether Mexico would accept Iran’s relocation, and she praised Tijuana’s hospitality in response. Baja California officials have been scrambling to coordinate logistics since the announcement.
Economic Boost and Local Connections
Hank Rhon said the Iranian delegation’s presence could deliver a significant economic boost to Tijuana, though he did not cite a specific dollar figure. In lighter remarks, he joked that the team would receive free entry to Caliente’s casino.
The Grupo Caliente owner also used the occasion to promote Xolos prospect Gilberto Mora, calling him a potential standout at the World Cup. Hank Rhon noted that he personally cannot attend games held in the United States due to a U.S. visa revocation dating to 2009.
Iran will travel across the border for its group stage matches at U.S. venues, then return to Tijuana between games. The arrangement is unprecedented for a World Cup, placing Tijuana at the center of one of the tournament’s most politically charged storylines. Residents near Estadio Caliente, located in the Zona Río area, should expect a visible security presence throughout the team’s stay.
This story was first reported by Jornada BC.