Body found outside stadium used by Iran's World Cup team in Mexico

A grim discovery was made in Tijuana, Mexico, as a decomposed body was found in the trunk of a car parked directly across from the stadium used by Iran's national soccer team. The vehicle, a gray Toyota SUV, had been in the parking lot of a supermarket adjacent to the Caliente stadium since Wednesday.

Authorities were alerted by a strong, putrid odor emanating from the car. During an inspection, police found the body, which was wrapped in a black bag and showed signs of violence, according to the Tijuana Prosecutor's Office. Forensics teams were called to the scene to examine the remains before removal.

The discovery has fueled speculation, particularly given the geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran. The Iranian team is reportedly training in Mexico instead of the United States due to these tensions. A heavily armed National Guard convoy escorts the team between their hotel and the stadium.

Tijuana itself is recognized as one of Mexico's most dangerous cities, with official statistics indicating over 1,200 homicides in 2025. Iran is scheduled to debut in the World Cup against Belgium in Los Angeles next Monday.