Authorities in Tijuana, Mexico, have launched an investigation after a body was discovered near a World Cup training centre. The corpse was found in a parking lot across from Estadio Caliente stadium, where Iran's national team has been training for its upcoming World Cup match against New Zealand.
The body was inside a bag in a grey car, and police opened the vehicle after detecting a pungent smell coming from the boot. The identity of the victim has not yet been released, but police are actively probing the discovery.
Iran's World Cup visa challenges
Iran is among more than a quarter of the countries taking part in the World Cup that are affected by travel bans to the US and have higher visa rejection rates. Members of Iran's football team were forced to land in Mexico because all three of Iran's group games are in the US, but players and staff will have to fly in and out of the country on the day of each match.
Iran has stated that 15 officials and other staff were denied visas outright, which they have branded as political interference. A US administration official said: 'We will not allow the Iranian team to abuse this system to sneak terrorists into the United States under false pretences.'
Fans face tough visa restrictions
Fans are also encountering difficulties entering the US. The visa recommended for spectators costs around £137 and requires an in-person interview. Visitors must demonstrate their 'intent to depart the United States after your trip, and/or your ability to pay all costs of the trip.'
A few countries, including Algeria, Cape Verde, the Ivory Coast, Senegal and Tunisia, were exempt from this price. However, the costs and restrictions have still made it challenging for fans to attend.
The main concern for the Department of Homeland Security appears to be football fans who may try to overstay their visa after the tournament ends. The DHS found that more than 538,000 'overstay events' were documented between 2023 and 2024.
