Persepolis F.C.
Persepolis F.C. is a professional association football club based in Tehran, Iran, founded on November 22, 1963, that competes in the Persian Gulf Pro League, the highest division of Iranian football.[1] The club has maintained a presence in the top flight since 1968 and plays its home matches at Azadi Stadium, drawing large crowds from its extensive supporter base across Iran and the Iranian diaspora.[1][2] With a record 16 Iranian league championships, seven Hazfi Cups, and five Iranian Supercups, Persepolis holds the distinction of being Iran's most decorated football club domestically, alongside a single Asian Cup Winners' Cup triumph in 1991 that marks its primary continental success.[3] The team's early history includes its first national title in 1971, followed by dominance under coaches like Ali Parvin in the 1990s, including an unbeaten league season in 1996–97.[2][4] Persepolis's rivalry with Esteghlal F.C. in the Tehran derby underscores intense local competition, while its fanbase—often cited as one of Asia's largest—has been involved in occasional protests and disciplinary issues, such as AFC fines for misconduct in international matches.[5][6][7]History
Shahin F.C. Origins (1942–1967)
Shahin F.C. was founded in Tehran in June 1942 by Dr. Abbas Ekrami, an educator and football enthusiast who drew the club's name—meaning "falcon" in Persian—from a verse in Hafez's Divan-e Hafez evoking soaring glory and agility. Ekrami established the club with a core group of young students, prioritizing moral development and education over athletic pursuits, as reflected in its motto: ethics first, education second, sports third. This approach fostered a disciplined environment that emphasized character-building alongside physical training, distinguishing Shahin from more purely competitive contemporaries in Iran's nascent football scene.[8][9] In its early years during the 1940s and 1950s, Shahin rapidly ascended in Tehran's local competitions, competing in the Tehran Football League and Hazfi Cup. The club secured Tehran League championships in the 1951–52 and 1958–59 seasons, alongside victories in the Tehran Hazfi Cup in 1951 and 1958. By the mid-1950s, Shahin had cultivated a roster of promising talents, including players like Mahmoud Shakibi and emerging stars such as Parviz Dehdari and Homayoun Behzadi, contributing to its reputation as a talent incubator. These successes established Shahin as one of Tehran's premier clubs, drawing large crowds and building a fervent supporter base amid the limited infrastructure of Iranian football at the time.[10][11][12] Throughout the 1960s, Shahin's dominance intensified, accumulating five Tehran League titles and three Hazfi Cups in total, which amplified its popularity but strained relations with the Iran Football Federation (FFIRI). The federation perceived Shahin's organizational independence and mass appeal—rivaling establishment-backed clubs like Taj—as a challenge to centralized control over the sport. Escalating disputes over administrative autonomy and player management reached a breaking point; on July 6, 1967, following a recent league match, the Iran Sports Organization officially dissolved Shahin, citing political and regulatory infractions. This abrupt end forced the club's players, including key figures like Jafar Kashani and Hossein Kalani, to seek new affiliations, paving the way for their integration into the newly formed Persepolis F.C. the following year.[12][13]Establishment and Early Development (1963–1969)
Persepolis Athletic and Cultural Club was established on November 22, 1963, by Ali Abdo, a championship boxer and son of a high-ranking diplomat who had recently returned to Iran from the United States.[14][12] Abdo envisioned a multisport organization encompassing football, basketball, volleyball, and other disciplines to foster athletic development and cultural engagement in Tehran. The club's football section emerged as its centerpiece, initially competing in regional leagues amid the power vacuum left by the dissolution of Shahin F.C. in 1967, which stemmed from conflicts with Iranian football authorities over administrative control and player recruitment.[15] The early football team focused on assembling a roster from local talent and former Shahin affiliates, establishing a foundation in the Tehran Province League during 1963–1967.[12] This period involved infrastructure buildup, including training facilities and youth development, while navigating limited national organization in Iranian football, which lacked a unified top-tier league until later reforms. Persepolis gained initial traction through competitive play in provincial cups, attracting supporters from Shahin's disbanded base, known for its emphasis on skillful, attacking football.[15] In 1968, the club ascended to the national first division under manager Parviz Dehdari, a former Shahin captain appointed on April 5, who strategically signed numerous ex-Shahin players to rebuild team cohesion and retain popular appeal among Tehran's broader populace.[16][12] Dehdari's tenure that season yielded 5 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses across 10 matches, including the inaugural Tehran Derby against Esteghlal on an unspecified date in 1968, marking Persepolis's entry into elite competition despite the absence of a full national league format due to prior club dissolutions.[17][12] By 1969, these efforts solidified the club's identity as a people's team, setting the stage for sustained rivalry and growth.[15]Takht Jamshid Era Achievements and Challenges (1969–1979)
The Takht Jamshid era began with Persepolis securing its first national title in the 1971–72 Local League, a precursor to the formalized national competition, where the club achieved 13 victories and 1 draw in 14 matches. This success established Persepolis as a dominant force amid the transition toward a structured professional league. The introduction of the Takht Jamshid Cup in 1973–74 marked a professional milestone for Iranian football, featuring 12 teams in a nationwide format. Persepolis clinched the inaugural championship, edging out rivals Taj by two points after a season of consistent performance. The club repeated as champions in 1975–76, posting an exceptional record with only two losses in 30 matches, highlighting tactical discipline and key contributions from players like Ali Parvin. Over the league's run through 1979, Persepolis amassed two titles and three runner-up finishes, outperforming competitors in a field that included strong sides such as Taj and PAS Tehran.[18] Challenges during this period stemmed primarily from fierce rivalries and escalating political instability. Persepolis frequently battled Taj for supremacy, with narrow margins defining several campaigns, including runner-up positions in 1974–75, 1977–78, and the incomplete 1978–79 season. The latter was abruptly suspended in February 1979 due to the Iranian Revolution, halting play after 13 matches and depriving the league—and Persepolis, then a top contender—of resolution amid widespread disruptions to sports infrastructure and organization. This political upheaval underscored the vulnerability of club operations to broader national turmoil, though Persepolis maintained competitive edge through the era's earlier years.[18][19]| Season | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1973–74 | 1st | Inaugural champions, 2 points ahead of Taj[18] |
| 1974–75 | 2nd | Taj champions[18] |
| 1975–76 | 1st | 28 wins/draws, 2 losses in 30 matches[18] |
| 1977–78 | 2nd | Competitive finish behind leader[18] |
| 1978–79 | Incomplete (top contender) | Suspended due to revolution[18] |
Post-Revolution Survival and Constraints (1979–1990)
Following the Iranian Revolution in February 1979, Persepolis F.C. faced immediate existential threats as its founder, Ali Abdo, fled to the United States amid the upheaval, and the club's assets were confiscated by the new Islamic Republic government.[12][20] Despite these disruptions, the club achieved a notable early victory by winning the 1979 Shahid Espandi Cup, an exhibition tournament organized in the chaotic transitional period, which provided a brief affirmation of its competitive viability.[21] However, the revolution led to significant player attrition, with many established squad members departing or failing to return, exacerbating operational instability as national football structures collapsed.[9] The ensuing decade imposed severe structural constraints, including the suspension of the national Takht Jamshid League after the 1978–79 season due to revolutionary violence and the subsequent Iran-Iraq War (1980–1988), which diverted resources and limited training amid broader societal turmoil.[22] Persepolis was relegated to regional competitions, primarily the Tehran Province League, where it secured championships in 1983, 1987, 1988, and 1989, alongside Tehran Hazfi Cup wins in 1982 and 1987, demonstrating resilience through local dominance fueled by enduring fan loyalty.[23] These provincial successes—totaling multiple titles in a fragmented system—highlighted the club's survival strategy of maintaining grassroots competitiveness, though without national or international exposure until the Qods League's inception in 1989.[9] Ideological pressures further constrained operations, culminating in the state-mandated renaming to Pirouzi F.C. (meaning "victory") on February 16, 1987, by the Physical Education Organization, as part of efforts to excise pre-revolutionary imperial associations and align with Islamic Republic symbolism.[21] While players formally agreed, supporters persisted in using "Persepolis," underscoring cultural resistance to the rebranding, which reflected broader governmental oversight of sports as instruments of ideological conformity rather than autonomous entities.[20] This period's limitations, including curtailed funding, politicized management, and isolation from global competitions, tested the club's institutional endurance, yet its repeated provincial triumphs laid groundwork for later national resurgence by preserving core talent pipelines and public support.[23]Revitalization Under Key Managers (1990–2001)
Following the challenges of the post-revolutionary era, Persepolis F.C. experienced a resurgence beginning in the early 1990s under the leadership of club legend Ali Parvin, who served as manager from 1989 to 1993. Parvin's tenure emphasized disciplined tactics and reliance on experienced players, culminating in the club's first continental triumph with victory in the 1990–91 Asian Cup Winners' Cup, where they defeated Al-Muharraq SC of Bahrain 1–0 on aggregate in the final.[24][25] Domestically, this period saw Persepolis claim the 1990/91 Tehran Clubs League title and the 1992/93 Azadegan League championship, marking their return to competitive prominence after years of inconsistency.[26] A transitional phase followed Parvin's initial departure, with the club finishing second in the 1993/94 Azadegan League and first in 1994/95. In 1995, Croatian coach Stanko Poklepović assumed management, introducing structured training and foreign expertise that propelled Persepolis to three consecutive Azadegan League titles from 1995/96 to 1996/97, including an unbeaten campaign in the latter season with 18 wins and 6 draws.[26][27] Poklepović's success stemmed from effective squad rotation and defensive solidity, though his tenure ended amid internal disputes, leading to a dismal 16th-place finish in 1997/98 under interim coaches.[26] Parvin's return in September 1998 restored stability, with his second stint (1998–2003) yielding immediate results through motivational leadership and youth integration, securing Azadegan League titles in 1998/99 and 1999/00.[26][27] The club finished second in 2000/01, setting the stage for further dominance. Overall, these managers oversaw six domestic league victories between 1992/93 and 1999/00, transforming Persepolis into Iran's most consistent top-tier contender by leveraging tactical discipline over financial advantages held by rivals.[26]Persian Gulf Pro League Dominance and Fluctuations (2001–Present)
Persepolis secured the inaugural Persian Gulf Pro League title in the 2001–02 season, defeating Esteghlal on the final day to claim their eighth national championship with 63 points from 26 wins, 9 draws, and 5 losses.[13] This victory established early promise in the professional era, but the club encountered significant fluctuations thereafter, failing to win the league for the next five seasons as Sepahan, PAS Tehran, Foolad, Esteghlal, and Saipa claimed titles.[28] In 2007–08, Persepolis ended the drought, finishing with 65 points from 18 wins, 11 draws, and 5 losses to edge out Sepahan by three points.[29] The late 2000s marked a period of inconsistency, with Persepolis recording their worst finishes in the top flight: 15th in 2008–09 (34 points from 8 wins, 10 draws, and 16 losses) and 13th in 2009–10 (38 points from 9 wins, 11 draws, and 14 losses), narrowly avoiding relegation amid managerial instability and defensive vulnerabilities.[26] Subsequent seasons showed gradual improvement but no titles, as they placed third in 2010–11, fifth in 2011–12, sixth in 2012–13 and 2013–14, and fourth in 2014–15, often trailing Sepahan's three consecutive wins (2009–10 to 2011–12) and Esteghlal's 2012–13 triumph due to inconsistent away form and failure to convert drawing-heavy campaigns into victories.[26] A fifth-place finish in 2015–16 (55 points) preceded a remarkable resurgence, with Persepolis capturing the 2016–17 title on goal difference over Esteghlal (58 points each).[28] From 2016–17 to 2020–21, Persepolis achieved unprecedented dominance, winning five consecutive league titles—the longest streak in Pro League history—amassing 295 points across those seasons while conceding only 107 goals, bolstered by robust defenses and key contributions from players like Ali Asghar Ashouri and Shoja Khalilzadeh.[29] Specific hauls included 20 wins in 2016–17, 19 in 2017–18 (57 points), 16 in 2018–19 (53 points despite a mid-season coaching change), the 2019–20 title amid COVID-19 disruptions (awarded after 15 matches with 34 points), and 21 wins in 2020–21 (67 points).[30] This era solidified their record as the Pro League's most successful club with nine titles by 2021.[13] Post-2021 fluctuations reemerged, as Esteghlal overtook them in 2021–22 (62 points to Persepolis's 60), ending the streak through superior head-to-head results and late-season surges.[28] Persepolis rebounded to win 2022–23 (68 points from 20 wins, 8 draws, 6 losses) and 2023–24 (64 points), but Tractor claimed the 2024–25 crown with 61 points to Persepolis's 56, highlighting defensive lapses (40 goals conceded) and a faltering attack in key fixtures.[29] In the ongoing 2025–26 season, as of October 2025, Persepolis hold fifth place with 11 points from 8 matches (2 wins, 5 draws, 1 loss), reflecting early struggles with scoring efficiency (average 0.5 goals per game).[31]| Season | Position | Points | Titles |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2001–02 | 1st | 63 | Yes |
| 2007–08 | 1st | 65 | Yes |
| 2016–17 to 2020–21 | 1st (each) | 53–67 | Yes (5) |
| 2022–23 | 1st | 68 | Yes |
| 2023–24 | 1st | 64 | Yes |
| 2024–25 | 3rd | 56 | No |
Recent Seasons and Managerial Changes (2020–2025)
Under the long-term stewardship of Yahya Golmohammadi, appointed on January 13, 2020, Persepolis secured the Persian Gulf Pro League titles in the 2019–20, 2020–21, and 2022–23 seasons, maintaining a dominant record with 19 wins in 30 matches during the 2020–21 campaign alone.[26][27] The club also claimed the 2020 and 2023 Iranian Super Cups during this period, though it exited the Hazfi Cup in the quarter-finals in 2020–21 after a penalty shootout loss to Esteghlal following a 0–0 draw.[3] Golmohammadi's tenure ended abruptly on January 8, 2024, amid reported internal disputes and inconsistent continental performances, including Persepolis's exclusion from the 2022 AFC Champions League due to licensing issues.[32] The subsequent years marked a period of managerial instability, coinciding with a decline in domestic form. Brazilian coach Osmar Loss took over on January 27, 2024, but departed after just 137 days on June 12, 2024, following the 2023–24 title win under transitional leadership.[27] Juan Carlos Garrido, appointed June 25, 2024, led the team through the early 2024–25 season but was sacked on December 22, 2024, after a string of draws and losses that saw Persepolis slip from title contenders. Karim Bagheri served as interim manager until January 26, 2025, unable to stabilize results.[27] Turkish coach Ismail Kartal assumed control on January 27, 2025, guiding the side to a mid-table finish in the 2024–25 league, but his contract expired on June 30, 2025, amid criticism over defensive vulnerabilities exposed in key matches.[27][33] Vahid Hashemian, a former Persepolis striker, was installed as head coach on July 4, 2025, aiming to leverage his club ties for cohesion.[27][34] However, early 2025–26 season struggles—including a 2–1 loss to Kheybar Khorramabad on October 18, 2025, and five draws in eight matches—prompted renewed turmoil, with the club rejecting sacking rumors on September 30, 2025, only to confirm a shift by October 24, 2025, appointing Brazilian Osmar Vieira as the latest foreign import.[35][36] As of October 26, 2025, Persepolis sits fifth in the league with 11 points from a 2–5–1 record, reflecting broader challenges like player departures and AFC Elite group stage exits.[37] In the Hazfi Cup, the team suffered a 3–0 semifinal defeat to Sepahan in February 2025 under Kartal.[38] This carousel of six managers in under two years underscores Persepolis's shift from sustained excellence to reactive hiring, driven by fan expectations and board pressures rather than long-term strategic continuity.[27]Club Identity
Colours, Crest, and Symbolism
Persepolis F.C. employs red as its primary colour and white as secondary, a combination inherited from its predecessor Shahin F.C. and retained since the club's founding in 1963. The home kit traditionally consists of a red jersey, red shorts (occasionally black or white in certain seasons), and red socks, while away kits primarily use white. This colour scheme has been consistent across most seasons, as documented in kit histories from 1968 onward.[39][40] The club's crest draws directly from the ancient city of Persepolis, the Achaemenid Empire's capital, incorporating a stylized Persian column from the Apadana palace to evoke historical grandeur and national identity. Initial designs featured the Faravahar, a Zoroastrian symbol of a winged figure representing good thoughts, words, and deeds, alongside falcon-winged men and bulls denoting productivity in ancient Persian iconography. Subsequent evolutions simplified the emblem, culminating in the modern version emphasizing the column within a shield-like frame on a red background, symbolizing resilience and imperial legacy.[41][2] These elements collectively embody Persepolis F.C.'s connection to Iran's pre-Islamic heritage, fostering a sense of cultural continuity amid the club's sporting pursuits. The red hue reinforces the team's moniker "Sorkhpoushan" (the reds) and its fervent supporters dubbed the "Red Army," underscoring themes of passion and collective strength without explicit doctrinal symbolism.[42]Kit Evolution and Sponsors
Persepolis F.C.'s kits have consistently featured red as the primary home color, paired with white accents, drawing from the club's emblematic ties to ancient Persian heritage, while away kits predominantly use white with red details. Early designs from the club's founding in 1963 through the 1980s emphasized simplicity, with plain red jerseys, shorts, and socks for home matches, often produced by local manufacturers without standardized branding or complex patterns. The inclusion of the club crest on shirts was intermittent, absent during much of the post-revolutionary period before resuming in the mid-1980s.[43] Design evolution accelerated in the 1990s and 2000s with the introduction of V-neck collars, sleeve piping, and subtle striped motifs, reflecting global football trends while adhering to the red-white palette. By the 2010s, kits incorporated more dynamic elements such as gradient fades, bold sponsor placements, and performance fabrics from international suppliers, though core colors remained unchanged to preserve fan identification. Recent iterations, including the 2025–26 home kit, maintain a classic red base with modern tailoring for aerodynamics and moisture management.[39][44] Kit manufacturing partnerships have shifted frequently since the mid-2010s, prioritizing deals with brands offering visibility in the Iranian market:| Period | Manufacturer |
|---|---|
| 2014–2015 | Macron |
| 2015–2016 | Uhlsport |
| 2016–2017 | Givova |
| 2017–2018 | Joma |
| 2018–2019 | Li-Ning |
| 2019–2023 | Uhlsport |
| 2023–present | Majid |
| Period | Shirt Sponsor(s) |
|---|---|
| 1999–2000 | Aiwa |
| 2000–2003 | Samsung |
| 2001–2002 | NEC |
| 2001–2003 | Jouraban |
| 2003–2004 | PARS |
| 2006–2007 | MTN |
| 2007–2009 | Marrybrown (secondary) |
| 2006–2017 | MTN (primary) |
| 2011 | Audi |
| 2011–2012 | Opel |
| 2018–2020 | MTN |
| 2020–2021 | Tourism Bank |
| 2022–2024 | MTN |
Facilities and Infrastructure
Primary Stadium: Azadi
Azadi Stadium, located within the Azadi Sports Complex in western Tehran, Iran, has served as the primary home venue for Persepolis F.C. since the club began utilizing it for matches in 1973.[50] The facility, originally named Aryamehr Stadium, was constructed between 1968 and 1971 at a cost equivalent to approximately $22 million (in 1970s USD) and officially inaugurated on October 17, 1971, ahead of hosting events for the 1974 Asian Games.[51] Designed by architect Abdol-Aziz Farmanfarmaian with a distinctive concrete shell structure inspired by pre-Islamic Persian architecture, it was built to accommodate large-scale sporting events, including football, athletics, and concerts.[52] The stadium's pitch measures 120 meters by 72 meters on natural grass, with a current all-seated capacity of 78,116 spectators following multiple renovations that prioritized safety and seating over standing areas.[50] Initial capacity exceeded 100,000, but upgrades in the 1980s and a major overhaul completed in 2003 reduced it by converting standing terraces to seats and improving infrastructure, including floodlights, scoreboards, and under-soil heating.[52] [53] Persepolis has hosted the vast majority of its domestic and continental home fixtures there, drawing average attendances often exceeding 50,000 for key Persian Gulf Pro League matches, bolstered by the club's status as Iran's most supported team.[50] The venue's atmosphere, fueled by Persepolis ultras in the Azadi section, is noted for its intensity, contributing to the club's strong home record, though shared tenancy with rival Esteghlal F.C. necessitates scheduling coordination.[51] While the stadium's all-time record attendance surpasses 128,000—set during Iran's 1998 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Australia—Persepolis games have routinely filled it to near capacity, underscoring its role in the club's identity and fan culture.[54] In 2025, maintenance and upgrades led to a temporary closure, forcing Persepolis to relocate early-season home games to smaller venues like the 8,000-capacity facilities in other cities, with full reopening confirmed for December 29, 2025, by Iran's sports minister.[55] This hiatus highlights ongoing challenges with stadium upkeep amid Iran's economic constraints, yet Azadi remains central to Persepolis' operations and aspirations for AFC Champions League hosting.[52]Training and Secondary Facilities
Derafshifar Stadium functions as Persepolis F.C.'s principal training ground and youth academy headquarters, situated in Tehran's Jannatabad district. The facility accommodates the club's daily training sessions, youth development programs, and occasionally matches for lower-tier teams, including the U17 squad, with a seating capacity of 2,500.[56] The complex encompasses multiple training pitches designed for football-specific drills, alongside ancillary amenities such as recovery pools and a hotel for player accommodations during intensive camps. These features support the club's emphasis on physical conditioning and tactical preparation, distinct from the larger-scale matchday infrastructure at Azadi Stadium.[42] In October 2025, Persepolis announced plans to redevelop Derafshifar Stadium into a multifaceted sports hub, aiming to enhance its role beyond training to include broader athletic and community functions, though specific timelines and funding details remain pending implementation.[57] Secondary training resources are supplemented by pitches within the Azadi Sports Complex, which encircle the primary stadium and provide auxiliary fields for supplemental sessions, particularly during periods of high fixture congestion. This setup allows Persepolis to distribute workloads across venues, optimizing pitch recovery and access amid shared usage with other Tehran-based clubs and the national team.[53]Media and Support Infrastructure
Persepolis F.C. possesses a substantial support infrastructure underpinned by one of Asia's largest fanbases, often manifesting in high stadium attendance and organized supporter activities. The club has recorded over 100,000 attendees in four AFC Champions League matches, underscoring the scale of its domestic and regional popularity. In the 2004–05 Persian Gulf Pro League season, Persepolis drew a total of 358,000 spectators across 15 home games, reflecting sustained crowd engagement despite capacity constraints at Azadi Stadium.[58][59] Supporter groups, colloquially known as the "Red Army," generate intense match-day atmospheres through chants, banners, and coordinated displays, with the official Persepolis Fan Association occasionally deploying amplification tools like loudspeakers to counter opposition protests. This organized fandom influences club dynamics, as vocal dissent has prompted managerial shifts in response to performance dips. Digital platforms amplify this support, with research showing that club social media content fosters fan loyalty and belonging by delivering timely updates, analyses, and interactive elements.[60][7][61][62] Media infrastructure centers on state-controlled broadcasting, as the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) holds exclusive rights to air Persian Gulf Pro League matches, including Persepolis fixtures, on channels such as IRIB TV3, IRIB Varzesh, and regional outlets. However, Iranian clubs derive no revenue from these transmissions, with IRIB operating without contractual payments to teams, a structural limitation that hampers financial independence. Official club communications rely on social media, exemplified by the verified Facebook page for news dissemination, while fan-oriented YouTube channels provide live streams, post-match commentary, and highlights to extend reach amid restricted private media.[63][64][65][66]Rivalries
Tehran Derby: Persepolis vs. Esteghlal
The Tehran Derby pits Persepolis F.C. against Esteghlal F.C., the two dominant clubs in Iranian football, both headquartered in Tehran and representing contrasting social bases within the city.[67][68] Esteghlal, originally Taj Club and founded in 1949 by military figures, has historically drawn support from establishment and elite circles, while Persepolis, formed in 1963 through a merger involving Shahin F.C., appeals to working-class and popular audiences.[67][69] The fixture's intensity stems from this divide, amplified by the clubs' combined 40 domestic league titles and frequent continental appearances, making it Iran's most anticipated match.[68] The inaugural derby occurred on April 5, 1968, at Amjadieh Stadium, ending in a 0–0 draw attended by around 20,000 fans.[70] Since then, the rivalry has unfolded primarily in the Persian Gulf Pro League, Hazfi Cup, and Tehran provincial tournaments, with matches shifting to the larger Azadi Stadium from the 1970s onward.[70] Up to March 2024, 102 official encounters yielded 27 Persepolis victories, 26 Esteghlal wins, and 49 draws, reflecting a balanced but often stalemated competition with an average of 1.82 goals per match.[67][71] Persepolis extended its edge in subsequent fixtures, defeating Esteghlal 1–0 away on September 25, 2024, and 2–1 at home on February 27, 2025, the latter drawing over 70,000 spectators despite capacity restrictions.[72][73]| Aspect | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Total Matches (to Mar 2024) | 102 |
| Persepolis Wins | 27 |
| Esteghlal Wins | 26 |
| Draws | 49 |
| Average Goals/Match | 1.82 |
| Largest Persepolis Win | 6–0 (September 7, 1973) |
Provincial Rivalries: Sepahan and Tractor
The rivalry between Persepolis F.C. and Sepahan S.C., the latter representing Isfahan Province, stems from the competitive landscape of the Persian Gulf Pro League, where both clubs have vied for supremacy since Sepahan's rise in the late 1990s. Matches often reflect broader regional pride, with Isfahan's industrial base contrasting Tehran's urban dominance, leading to high-stakes encounters that influence title races.[77] Persepolis and Sepahan have contested numerous derbies pivotal to league standings, such as Sepahan's 2–1 victory over Persepolis on May 14, 2011, which contributed to Sepahan clinching the 2010–11 league title.[78] Head-to-head statistics underscore the balance: across 84 official meetings, Sepahan holds 27 wins, Persepolis 27, and 30 draws, with Sepahan netting 107 goals to Persepolis's 99.[77] In league play specifically, recent seasons show Persepolis edging out in direct confrontations, winning 6 of the last 24 league matches against Sepahan's 11, alongside 7 draws, highlighting Persepolis's resilience in away fixtures at Isfahan's Naghsh-e Jahan Stadium.[79] These fixtures frequently feature defensive battles, averaging 2.26 goals per match overall.[78] Persepolis's clashes with Tractor S.C., based in Tabriz and embodying Azerbaijani regional identity in East Azerbaijan Province, intensified following Tractor's promotion to the top tier in 2008, transforming routine league games into tests of national versus provincial loyalty.[80] The rivalry draws large crowds at Tabriz's Yadegar-e Emam Stadium, where Tractor's fervent support amplifies the atmosphere, though Persepolis has historically dominated, as evidenced by a 5–2 league win on March 10, 2000, during the Azadegan League era.[81] In 33 matches since 2009, Persepolis leads with 17 victories to Tractor's 10, the rest ending in draws, with an average of 2.03 goals per game.[80][82] Tractor has occasionally upset Persepolis in key fixtures, such as a 4–1 home win in the 2011–12 season, but Persepolis maintains superiority in recent head-to-heads, winning 13 of 21 analyzed encounters.[83] These rivalries underscore Persepolis's role as a national benchmark, often prevailing through tactical discipline against regionally fueled opponents.[84]Personnel
Managerial History and Current Staff
The managerial history of Persepolis F.C. is marked by frequent transitions, often driven by inconsistent league results and the club's status as Iran's most supported team, necessitating quick adaptations to maintain dominance in the Persian Gulf Pro League. Early appointments emphasized domestic coaches building the club's identity post-1963 founding, evolving to include foreign experts for tactical innovation amid continental ambitions. Tenures have averaged under two years in recent decades, with successes tied to defensive solidity and youth integration.[85][86] Recent managers reflect this pattern of short-term hires blending Iranian familiarity with international experience:| Tenure | Manager | Nationality |
|---|---|---|
| July 2025 – present | Vahid Hashemian | Iran |
| January – June 2025 | İsmail Kartal | Turkey |
| December 2024 | Karim Bagheri (interim) | Iran |
| July – December 2024 | Juan Garrido | Spain |
| January – June 2024 | Osmar Loss | Brazil |
Current First-Team Squad and Key Players
The first-team squad of Persepolis F.C. for the 2025/26 season comprises 30 players, featuring a mix of experienced Iranian internationals, youth prospects, and a limited number of foreign talents, with an average age of 26.9 years.[90] Central defender Hossein Kanaani serves as captain, anchoring the backline with his leadership and defensive solidity.[90] Veteran winger Omid Alishah, a long-serving club icon, extended his contract through June 2026, providing continuity in attack.[91] Key recent acquisitions include right-back Serge Aurier, a 32-year-old Ivorian with prior experience in top European leagues, signed to bolster the flanks, and Congolese forward Thievy Bifouma, adding proven goal-scoring depth.[90] Striker Ali Alipour has emerged as the squad's leading marksman in the early stages of the 2025/26 Persian Gulf Pro League, highlighting his importance to the team's offensive output.[92] Midfielders like Yasin Salmani and Reza Shekari contribute creativity and dynamism, while goalkeeper Payam Niazmand provides reliability between the posts.| Position | Key Players | Age | Nationality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Goalkeepers | Payam Niazmand (starter) | 30 | Iran |
| Defenders | Hossein Kanaani (captain), Serge Aurier, Morteza Pouraliganji | 31, 32, 33 | Iran, Cote d'Ivoire, Iran |
| Midfielders | Yasin Salmani, Reza Shekari, Soroush Rafiei | 23, 27, 35 | Iran |
| Forwards | Ali Alipour, Omid Alishah, Oston Urunov | 29, 33, 24 | Iran, Iran, Uzbekistan |
Youth Academy, Reserves, and Development
The Persepolis F.C. youth academy serves as the club's foundational structure for talent identification and cultivation, encompassing age groups from under-12 to under-19, with operations integrated into the club's broader training infrastructure in Tehran. The system prioritizes grassroots scouting across Iran, emphasizing technical proficiency, tactical discipline, and physical conditioning to align with the demands of professional football in the Persian Gulf Pro League.[93][94] The U21 reserve team functions as an intermediate squad, competing in Iran's national U21 leagues to bridge the gap between academy prospects and the senior roster, providing match experience against comparable competition while allowing rotation of first-team fringe players. This setup facilitates gradual exposure, with reserves often training alongside seniors under shared coaching philosophies.[95] Player development pathways have yielded notable alumni who advanced to professional levels, including winger Farshad Ahmadzadeh (born 1992), who debuted for the senior team after academy progression, and forward Mohsen Bayatinia (born 1980), among others tracked through club records. Recent promotions underscore ongoing efficacy, such as striker Amirreza Valipour's elevation to senior training sessions in September 2025, exemplifying merit-based advancement from youth ranks.[96][97] Historically, the academy contributed significantly to Iran's talent pool during the club's formative decades post-1963 founding, though contemporary assessments note a relative decline in output compared to past eras, amid broader challenges in Iranian football's youth pipelines dominated by Persepolis and rivals. Efforts persist to sustain homegrown integration, reducing reliance on external transfers and fostering club loyalty through cost-effective development.[98][94]Notable Alumni: Players and Managers
Ali Parvin served as both a pivotal midfielder and later a successful manager for Persepolis F.C., embodying the club's enduring legacy. During his playing career from the late 1960s to 1982, Parvin captained the team to multiple domestic titles and represented Iran at the 1978 FIFA World Cup, contributing to the national team's Asian Cup victories in 1976. As manager from 1988 to 1993 and again from 1996 to 2000, he secured three Iranian Pro League championships, including an unbeaten season in 1996–97, alongside three Hazfi Cups.[99][4] Ali Daei, Iran's all-time leading international goalscorer with 109 goals, began his professional ascent at Persepolis from 1994 to 1996, where he netted 23 goals in 38 appearances and helped win the Iranian league title in 1996–97. His prolific form there propelled him to European clubs like Bayern Munich and Hertha BSC, establishing him as a global icon of Iranian football. Daei also briefly managed Persepolis in 2013–14, though his tenure yielded mixed results with 40 matches overseen.[100][101] Ali Karimi, dubbed the "Asian Maradona," honed his visionary playmaking at Persepolis from 1998 to 2001, appearing in over 100 matches and securing two Iranian league titles and one Hazfi Cup before transferring to Bayern Munich in 2001. His technical brilliance earned him two AFC Asian Player of the Year awards in 2004 and 2006, with subsequent stints at Qatar SC and Schalke 04.[102] Karim Bagheri anchored Persepolis' midfield for nearly two decades starting in 1996, captaining the side to seven league titles and emerging as a set-piece specialist with powerful long-range strikes; he amassed over 300 appearances and later transitioned to assistant coaching roles at the club. His loyalty and leadership mirrored the club's competitive ethos amid domestic dominance.[103] Mehdi Taremi exploded onto the scene at Persepolis from 2014 to 2018, topping the Persian Gulf Pro League scoring charts with 18 goals in 2017–18 and delivering a hat-trick in the 2017 AFC Champions League against Al-Wahda. Post-Persepolis, he excelled in Europe with FC Porto, scoring over 50 Primeira Liga goals before joining Inter Milan in 2024.[104][105] Among managers, Branko Ivanković guided Persepolis from 2015 to 2019, clinching two Iranian Pro League titles in 2016–17 and 2017–18, a Hazfi Cup in 2018–19, and reaching the 2018–19 AFC Champions League semi-finals, showcasing tactical discipline that elevated the club's continental profile. His 175 matches in charge underscored a pragmatic style suited to Iranian football's intensity.[106][107] Other alumni like Vahid Hashemian and Mehdi Mahdavikia transitioned from Persepolis to Bundesliga success with Bochum and Hamburg, respectively, while Homayoun Behzadi etched his name in club lore by scoring the decisive goal in the 1970 Asian Club Championship, Persepolis' sole continental triumph to date. These figures highlight Persepolis' role as a talent incubator, though many remained domestically focused due to limited international mobility pre-2000s.[108]Achievements and Records
Domestic League and Cup Honours
Persepolis F.C. has secured a record 16 titles in Iran's top-tier football league, encompassing both pre-professional and professional eras, including multiple victories in the Persian Gulf Pro League since its establishment in 2001.[23] The club's dominance is highlighted by consecutive wins in the 2016–17, 2017–18, 2019–20, 2020–21, 2022–23, and 2023–24 seasons of the Persian Gulf Pro League.[23] [30] The most recent triumph came on June 1, 2024, following a 1–0 victory over Mes Rafsanjan, marking their 16th national league championship overall.[109] In cup competitions, Persepolis has won the Hazfi Cup— Iran's primary knockout tournament—a joint-record seven times, equalling the tally of rivals Esteghlal F.C.[110] The latest success occurred in the 2022–23 edition, defeating Esteghlal 2–1 after extra time on May 31, 2023, to complete a domestic double that season.[111] [112] Persepolis has also lifted the Iranian Super Cup five times, including four consecutive victories from 2017 to 2021, though they lost the 2024 edition to Sepahan on January 17, 2025.[23] [113] These achievements underscore the club's sustained competitive edge in domestic football, supported by consistent performance across league and cup formats.[23]Continental Competition Participation and Results
Persepolis F.C. has competed in Asian Football Confederation (AFC) tournaments since the late 1960s, with early appearances in the Asian Club Championship, including group stage participation in 1968 against teams such as Toyo Industries SC and Perak FA.[114] The club's first major continental success came in the 1990–91 Asian Cup Winners' Cup, where they defeated Al-Muharraq in the quarter-finals (0–0 away, 1–0 home) before advancing to win the title, marking Iran's first victory in the competition and ending a drought for Persian Gulf clubs.[23] Subsequent editions saw quarter-final exits in 1992 against Yokohama Marinos (1–1 away, 0–1 home) and 1993 against Al-Arabi SC (1–1 away, 1–2 home).[114] In the Asian Club Championship, the predecessor to the AFC Champions League, Persepolis achieved third-place finishes in three editions: 1996–97 (defeating Al-Zawraa SC 4–1 in the third-place match), 1999–00 (beating Irtysh 2–0), and 2000–01 (over Suwon Bluewings 1–0), alongside a fourth-place result in 1997–98 after losing 1–4 to Al-Hilal in the playoff.[114] Group stage efforts included 2002 against Al-Talaba SC, Pakhtakor, and Nisa, reflecting consistent but trophyless continental contention during this era.[114] Transitioning to the AFC Champions League era, Persepolis has qualified multiple times as Iranian league champions or cup winners, reaching the semi-finals in 2016 (aggregate loss to Al-Hilal: 0–4 home, 2–2 away) and 2017 (aggregate loss to Kashima Antlers: 0–2 away, 0–0 home).[114] The club advanced to the final in 2018, finishing as runners-up after a 0–1 aggregate defeat to Kashima Antlers, and repeated the feat in 2020, losing 0–2 on aggregate to Ulsan Hyundai FC despite overcoming Sharjah FC in the quarter-finals and Al-Duhail SC in the semi-finals.[5][115] Other notable knockout runs include round-of-16 exits in 2008 (to Bunyodkor), 2011 (to Al-Ittihad), and 2014 (to Al-Hilal: 1–0 home, 0–3 away), with quarter-final losses in 2019 (to Ulsan Hyundai 1–2).[114]| Season | Competition | Stage Reached |
|---|---|---|
| 1990–91 | Asian Cup Winners' Cup | Winners |
| 1996–97 | Asian Club Championship | Third place |
| 1999–00 | Asian Club Championship | Third place |
| 2000–01 | Asian Club Championship | Third place |
| 2016 | AFC Champions League | Semi-finals |
| 2017 | AFC Champions League | Semi-finals |
| 2018 | AFC Champions League | Runners-up |
| 2020 | AFC Champions League | Runners-up |
Individual Player and Staff Awards
Several Persepolis players have earned top individual honors in the Persian Gulf Pro League (IPL), Iran's premier domestic competition. Mehdi Taremi was voted IPL Player of the Year in 2016 and again in 2017, recognizing his pivotal role in the club's league campaigns during those seasons.[116][117] In the 2018–19 season, goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand claimed both the IPL Player of the Year and Best Goalkeeper awards, while defender Jalal Hosseini was named Best Defender, contributing to Persepolis's status as the league's top team that year.[118] Earlier accolades include striker Mohsen Khalili winning Iran's Golden Ball award as the best domestic player for the 2007–08 season.[119] Forward Ali Daei, during his time with the club from 1989 to 1996, received the IFFHS World's Best Top Goal Scorer award in 1996 for his prolific output.[120] On the continental stage, Persepolis players have garnered nominations for AFC honors, such as Beiranvand's shortlisting for AFC Player of the Year following the 2018 AFC Champions League, though no club affiliates have secured the top AFC individual prize to date.[121] Persepolis staff have also been recognized for coaching excellence. Afshin Ghotbi earned the Manager of the Year title at the 2007–08 Golden Ball awards, coinciding with the club's team honor. Branko Ivanković was selected as Iran's best head coach at the 2018 football awards ceremony.[122] Yahya Golmohammadi later received recognition as the top coach in West Asia for the AFC Champions League.[123]| Season | Recipient | Award |
|---|---|---|
| 2007–08 | Mohsen Khalili | Golden Ball Best Iranian Player[119] |
| 2016 | Mehdi Taremi | IPL Player of the Year[124] |
| 2017 | Mehdi Taremi | IPL Player of the Year[124] |
| 2018–19 | Alireza Beiranvand | IPL Player of the Year & Best Goalkeeper[118] |
| 2018–19 | Jalal Hosseini | IPL Best Defender[118] |
Statistical Milestones and Club Records
Persepolis F.C. maintains several notable individual and match-related records. Omid Alishah holds the club record for most appearances, achieving 280 matches by February 2025, during which he scored 24 goals and provided 46 assists.[125] The all-time top goalscorers include Farshad Pious in first place, followed by Ali Alipour, Ali Parvin, and Nasser Mohammadkhani, based on competitive matches across domestic and continental competitions.[126] Attendance figures underscore the club's strong fan support. The highest recorded crowds are 120,000 spectators, achieved in the August 2, 1991, Asian Club Championship match against Al Hilal and the October 8, 1983, Tehran derby against Esteghlal at Azadi Stadium.[127] Persepolis matches in the AFC Champions League have also set benchmarks, including elevated attendance for the 2018 final second leg against Kashima Antlers, surpassing prior continental final records.[128]| Record Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Biggest Home Win | 16 July 1994 vs. Shahin Bushehr (Azadegan League), attendance 25,000[127] |
| Heaviest Defeat | 22 September 1994 vs. Fath Tehran (Tehran Hazfi Cup), attendance 10,000[127] |
| Lowest Attendance | 19 March 1972 vs. Sepahan, 200 spectators[127] |