World Cup 2026: Switzerland warned about snakes near training base in San Diego

Switzerland's preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have taken an unusual turn after players were warned about snakes in areas surrounding their training base in San Diego.

The Swiss national team arrived in California ahead of their opening Group B match against Qatar on June 13 and have been adapting to the local conditions, including warm and humid weather.

However, attention has also turned to wildlife after Switzerland's official team account shared an image of the training facility showing a designated "snake area" bordering parts of the complex.

The area was highlighted on a map of the camp with a warning advising players and staff to watch out for snakes.

According to local wildlife experts, San Diego is home to several species of rattlesnakes, including the Southern Pacific rattlesnake, one of the region's most common venomous snakes.

Switzerland are not the only team facing such concerns during the tournament.

Norway have also reportedly received warnings about snakes near their training base in Greensboro, North Carolina. Local authorities advised players to avoid disturbing any reptiles they encounter, particularly copperhead snakes, which are common in the area.

The unusual warnings highlight some of the environmental challenges teams may encounter during the first World Cup to be staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Despite the distraction, Switzerland remain focused on their tournament preparations as they gear up for their opening match against Qatar. They will also face Bosnia and Herzegovina and co-hosts Canada in Group B as they target a place in the knockout stages.

The 2026 World Cup kicks off on June 11 and will be the largest tournament in the competition's history, featuring 48 teams across three host nations.

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