Parhizkari: We Will Restore Pitch Number One
Davood Parhizkari, Head of the Iran National Football Center, spoke about the latest status of pitch number one at the National Football Center: "The National Football Center, spanning 14 hectares, is a facility where all national football teams, from adults to juniors, in football, futsal, and beach soccer, for both men and women, are active."
He added: "All those working in this facility strive to conduct camps, meetings, and seminars assigned to this center in the best possible manner. Our work is generally divided into two parts. One is the executive section, which includes these activities, and the other is the infrastructure and construction section, where we aim to provide excellent infrastructure for national teams, as defined by the federation's presidency."
He continued: "Implementing the defined projects takes time. Last year, we managed to complete several ongoing projects in a timely manner. The football hotel was inaugurated by the Minister of Sports in March and is now operational. It is currently used by national teams, referees attending VAR classes, and many other teams. The security area was also completed last year, and road construction projects have been implemented and are operational."
Parhizkari explained: "For the year 1403 (2024/2025), we have defined several projects, one of which is pitch number one at the National Football Center. After completing administrative procedures, this pitch will be cultivated and will be ready for use in 4-5 months. The locker room for pitch number two and the artificial turf pitch is under construction. Last year, 40% of this project was completed, and by the end of March, this locker room project will be finalized and available to national teams training on pitch number two and the artificial turf."
He further mentioned: "Our next major project is the Football Federation building. In our meetings, the initial design will be finalized and discussed by a working group appointed by the federation's presidency. Any required changes will be addressed in the session. Once the building design, covering 8,000 square meters, is finalized, it will be put up for tender to select capable companies for this significant project. The new building project will be located next to the National Football Center's security area."
Parhizkari emphasized the condition of pitch number one: "This pitch was formerly known as pitch number seven of Azadi Stadium. It is 25 years old and is currently known as pitch number one at the National Football Center. Due to the extensive use by various national teams, it has lost its quality and requires comprehensive restoration to bring the new turf into operation. Within the next month, we will finalize discussions with reputable companies in this field. Upon reaching a consensus, and in collaboration with a company that aligns with the federation's conditions, we will restore this pitch. Considering the climatic conditions, after planting, the pitch will need 3-4 months to grow and strengthen before it is operational. This will happen this year, and next year it will be fully usable."