By Farrokh Hesabi

Iran’s U17 elimination signals a deeper football crisis

TEHRAN - Iran’s 2–1 defeat against India, and the subsequent failure to qualify for the AFC U17 Asian Cup 2026, was more than just a disappointing result. It was the latest and clearest symptom of a deep, structural crisis gripping Iran’s youth football system.

Iran’s Abazari takes silver at 2025 World Karate Championships

TEHRAN – Saleh Abazari of Iran seized a silver medal at the 2025 World Karate Championships Sunday night.

Iran fail to reach 2026 AFC U17 Asian Cup

TEHRAN - India qualified for the AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026 after a hard-fought 2-1 win against Iran in their final Qualifiers Group D tie on Sunday.

Iran’s Golshadnezhad wins gold at 2025 World Karate Championships

TEHRAN – Iran’s Atousa Golshadnezhad defeated China’s Gong Li 4-2 in the final match of the Female Kumite -61kg to win a gold medal at the 2025 World Karate Championships on Sunday.

Iran victorious over Iraq at FIBA World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers

TEHRAN – Iran defeated Iraq 86-71 at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers at the Nouhad Nawfal Sports Complex in Beirut, Lebanon on Sunday.

Esteghlal edge Foolad to move top of 2025/26 PGPL

TEHRAN – Esteghlal football team moved to the top of Iran’s 2025/26 Persian Gulf Pro League (PGPL) after edging Foolad 1-0 on Sunday.

Bahmanyar takes bronze at 2025 World Karate Championships

TEHRAN – Iran’s Sara Bahmanyar won a bronze medal at the 2025 World Karate Championships on Sunday.

Hungary crash Iran at 2025 World Women's Handball Championship

TEHRAN - Hungary delivered a commanding performance against Iran, beating Team Melli 47-13 at the 2025 World Women's Handball Championship.