TEHRAN - The Iranian Football League Organization has announced the conclusion date for the Persian Gulf Pro League (PGPL) and outlined the allocation of AFC club competition slots for the Iranian teams.

Additionally, in response to recent accusatory remarks made by coaches in press conferences and repetitive club statements against opponents, the Organization has released a list of punishments for the managers and coaches who continue these behaviors.

*League schedule and AFC slots

League conclusion: The PGPL will conclude before June 3rd, subject to approval by the national team coach.

Cup Final: The remaining Hazfi Cup matches, including the semi-finals and final, will be played after the FIFA international break. The final match is expected to take place by June 21st, marking the end of the 2023/24 club season.

AFC Champions League slots: A maximum of four Iranian teams will participate in AFC Champions League next season.

*New AFC club competition format

Elite League and ACL2: The Asian club competition format will undergo a change next year, replacing the current AFC Champions League with an Elite League and an ACL2.

Elite League Qualification: The top two teams from the 23rd PGPL season will automatically qualify for the Elite League next season. The winners of the Hazfi Cup will enter a playoff for the remaining slot.

ACL2 qualification: The third-placed team in the PGPL will qualify for the ACL2. The playoff losers for the Elite League will also enter the ACL2.

*Tiebreakers for PGPL Title

Head-to-Head Record: In case of equal points between two teams, the head-to-head record will determine the champions.

Goal difference: If two or more teams have equal points and head-to-head records, goal difference will be used as the next tiebreaker.

Goals scored: If all other tiebreakers are inconclusive, the team with the most goals scored will be declared the champions.

Addressing unsportsmanlike conduct

The League Organization has taken action to address the recent rise in unsportsmanlike conduct by the coaches and clubs. A list of punishments has been released for those who continue to engage in accusatory remarks or repetitive statements against opponents. These penalties include significant financial fines.

The Organization hopes that these measures will promote a more respectful and sporting environment within the Iranian football.