News ID: 414

Date: 23 July 2025 - 10:09

Iran’s Minister of Sports:

Youth Development Must Be Continuous – Football Should Lead in AI Integration

In a high-level technical session convened on July 21st, Iran’s Minister of Sports and Youth, Dr. Ahmad Donyamali, emphasized that youth development in football must be a continuous, strategic process, not just a reactionary overhaul of aging teams. He also urged the Football Federation of Iran (FFIRI) to become a pioneer in integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into football operations, stating that “football is globally the most AI-compatible sport.”

🔷 Key Highlights from the Meeting:

🟢 Youth Development Philosophy:

Donyamali rejected the outdated concept of “rebuilding” teams only after they become aged, advocating for ongoing talent nurturing and long-term planning.

“Let’s move beyond the mindset of sudden rejuvenation and instead ensure consistent investment in our youth pipeline,” he stated.

⚙️ Technology & Innovation:

The Minister highlighted the necessity for Iranian football to align with global trends in AI.

“FFIRI must embrace cutting-edge tools like artificial intelligence to optimize performance, data analysis, and match strategies.”

🟨 Session Overview:

Hosted by the Specialized Commission on Monitoring Federations, the session focused on preparations for:

The AFC U-23 Asian Cup Qualifiers

The Islamic Solidarity Games

Men’s and Women’s National Futsal programs

FFIRI President Mehdi Taj presented updates on national teams' preparations and upcoming friendly fixtures. He emphasized Iran’s ambition to win gold in futsal at the Islamic Solidarity Games in Riyadh, stating that “many believe the futsal gold belongs to Iran.”

Omid Ravankhah, head coach of the U-23 men’s football team, outlined his training strategy and said, “Our team is working hard to qualify and even aim for the title at the final stage in Saudi Arabia later this year.”

Vahid Shamsaei, men’s futsal head coach, also provided a report, expressing full readiness for the Islamic Solidarity Games and commitment toward the AFC Futsal Championship.

🔵 Other Officials in Attendance:

Seyed Mohammad Shervin Asbaghian, Deputy of Professional Sports

Fariba Mohammadian, Deputy for Women’s Sports

Seyed Manaf Hashemi, Deputy of Resources and Management

Mohammad Reza Davarzani and Ali Reghbati, Ministerial Advisors

Nasrollah Sajjadi, Advisor to the NOC

Reza Shaji’, Head of National Teams Oversight

Coaches: Omid Ravankhah (U-23), Vahid Shamsaei (Futsal), and Fouzan Kakavand (Women’s Futsal)

📝 Follow-Up:

It was agreed that two more technical sessions will be held soon, focusing specifically on:

The Men’s and Women’s National Futsal Teams

The Women’s National Football Teams

This meeting reflects the government’s direct engagement in ensuring Iran’s competitive edge in upcoming international competitions, through strategic planning, technical support, and emphasis on AI and continuous youth development.