News ID: 236

Date: 24 May 2025 - 21:48

#Grassroots

Iran Grassroots National Forum Held with AFC Observers and Federation President

Iran Grassroots focused on the development of youth football, was held at the Olympic Hotel in Tehran.

According to the official website of the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), the Iran Grassroots National Forum was organized by the federation’s Youth Department and Youth Committee, and took place at the Olympic Hotel in Tehran. The event was attended by FFIRI President Mehdi Taj, First Vice-President Mehdi Mohammadnabi, Head of the Youth Department Somayeh Dehghanian, Youth Committee Chair Seyed Mirshad Majedi, FFIRI Technical Director Majid Jalali, and AFC representative Ovida Dolotov, along with several invited guests and youth football experts.

Seyed Mirshad Majedi, speaking at the event, stated:
"Today is a celebration of grassroots football across Asia. In Iran, children aged 6 to 12 participated in special events, and we showcased a model that connects three essential elements: families, coaches, and young players. In a program held yesterday at Shahid Gharavi Stadium, both players and coaches engaged actively, while parents attended psychological training sessions to better support their children and understand their roles in the football development triangle."

Somayeh Dehghanian, Head of the Youth Department, added:
"In line with FIFA’s Global Grassroots Day initiative, we convened this forum to review our national program's progress over recent years. To date, more than 100 provincial festivals have been held with thousands of young participants. We have worked diligently on coach education and organized over 400 hours of training to strengthen grassroots festivals and competitions. Our efforts have also been aligned with AFC’s developmental criteria."

Mehdi Mohammadnabi, FFIRI’s First Vice-President, also addressed the forum, noting:
"Football is a multifaceted global industry, deeply rooted in our culture and communities. If we, as custodians of the game, fail to plan and envision its future, our youth and the sport itself will suffer. Over the past two decades, we have faced significant challenges—including sanctions and developmental gaps—but have managed to make meaningful strides through structured planning under the Grassroots framework. For instance, the project implemented at Paykan Club represents a successful example of our approach. We must continue to move forward."

At the conclusion of the session, AFC representative Ovida Dolotov praised Iran's efforts in grassroots football development, emphasizing the importance of continued progress and collaboration in building a strong foundation for the future of the game.