FIFA President Praises Iranian Authorities for Allowing Women to Enter Stadiums
TEHRAN (Tasnim)- FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his optimism following a landmark event where a female-only crowd of 45,000 spectators attended a Persian Gulf Pro League match in Isfahan, Iran.
The match, held on Monday, December 16, 2024, at Naghsh-e Jahan Stadium, saw Sepahan defeat Persepolis 2-1. This fixture followed a decision by the Iran Football Federation’s (FFIRI) disciplinary committee last year, mandating that certain men’s fixtures—home and away—be played exclusively with women in attendance.
“I am very pleased to learn about the attendance of around 45,000 women and girls at the Naghsh-e Jahan Stadium in Isfahan for the Iranian top-flight match between Sepahan and Persepolis earlier this week,” said the FIFA President.
“FIFA has been in constant contact with authorities in Iran for several years regarding women and girls having the possibility to attend football matches. After last year’s Tehran Derby between Persepolis and Esteghlal, where 3,000 women and girls were in attendance, this latest development represents how our game is inclusive and open for everyone to enjoy.”
Infantino expressed his gratitude to all stakeholders involved in making the event possible, including local authorities and the Islamic Republic of Iran Football Federation, led by President Mehdi Taj. He added, “I look forward to seeing even more women and girls having the opportunity to regularly attend football matches in the future.”
