Despite sports progress, women in Iran are still prohibited from entering football stadiums. However, a significant milestone was achieved during the 2018 FIFA World Cup when, after 40 years, they were finally granted access to Azadi Stadium in Tehran to experience live football matches.

On March 1st, during a meeting between Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, and Hassan Rouhani, the former president of Iran, the lifting of the ban on women’s presence in stadiums was discussed. Subsequently, selective permits were issued, allowing women to enter sports venues.

The long-awaited opening of the doors at Azadi Stadium coincided with the excitement of the FIFA World Cup in Russia. Families were now able to come together and enjoy the thrill of watching the Iranian national team compete.