Sepp Blatter and Larijani

PLDC - Tehran, A new era of Iranian fan culture might be ahead of us. Women are now on the verge of being able to attend football matches.


Sepp Blatter's visit to Iran has proven to be very beneficial. During his visit he told Iranian officials that women must be allowed in football stadiums, and that other Muslim countries allow women in their stadiums. The FIFA boss even asked Ali Larijani (chairman of Iran's parliment) to promise to pass a bill lifting the ban on women in stadiums. Blatter also discussed this issue with President Rohani.

Traditionally, authorities have argued that the atmosphere of a football stadium is not suitable for ladies, because of the foul language and often vulgar behaviour, that is not only seen in Iran, but across the world. However, Sepp Blatter has stated that if Iran wants to have a more clearly heard voice in world football, then these amendments must be made.

If this ban gets lifted, stadium attendances could skyrocket. This is especially promising and comforting, in a time that less and less people are going to Iran's many stadiums to watch their favourite clubs or Team Melli.

In a few months, Team Melli's warm-up matches for World Cup 2014 could indeed be sold out.

By: Arman Tamjidi
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