WANA (May 24) – Iran’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, hailed football as a powerful force for unity, citing the recent championship celebrations of Iran’s Tractor football club as a vivid example.

 

Speaking at the UN General Assembly on the occasion of the International Day of Football, Iravani emphasized the sport’s role in promoting global values such as teamwork, passion, inclusion, and solidarity.

 

“On the International Day of Football, we celebrate not only the world’s most beloved sport but also the values it embodies—teamwork, passion, resilience, inclusion, and unity,” said Iravani. “Football is a universal language that transcends borders and brings people from diverse cultures and nations together.”

 

Iravani noted that football holds deep cultural significance in Iran and enjoys immense popularity across the country. He praised the Iranian national team as a lasting symbol of unity and national pride, highlighting that Iran was among the early teams to qualify for the FIFA World Cup, underscoring the determination and talent of its players.

 

He singled out clubs such as Tractor, Persepolis, and Esteghlal for their vast fan bases that extend beyond regional and cultural boundaries. Referring to the recent Persian Gulf Pro League triumph of Tractor Club, Iravani said:

 

“Last week, over 100,000 fans gathered at Tabriz stadium to celebrate Tractor’s victory, while another 200,000 joined street festivities across the city. This widespread jubilation is a testament to football’s unique power to unite.”

 

The Iranian envoy also noted that the club received congratulations from fans across Iran and neighboring countries.

 

Calling attention to football’s potential as a tool for empowerment, inclusion, and peace, Iravani urged the international community to address existing disparities.

 

“While football’s appeal is global, its benefits are not equally accessible. Many developing nations, despite their passion and talent, face serious challenges due to insufficient infrastructure and a lack of investment. These obstacles hinder millions of children and youth from realizing their potential through sport.”

 

He called on the UN agencies, development banks, and international sports federations to prioritize the development of sports infrastructure in the developing world.

Soccer Football – Asian Champions League – Group B – Persepolis v Al Nassr – Azadi Stadium, Tehran, Iran – February 17, 2025
Persepolis’ Serdar Dursun in action with Al Nassr’s Nawaf Boushal
Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)