Ownership of Iran football giants transferred to two ministries
Iran Front Page – TEHRAN, The ownership of the two most popular football clubs of Iran, namely Esteghlal FC and Perspolis FC, has been transferred to two ministries following a decision by the country’s Ministry of Sports and Youths.
Esteghlal was given to the Ministry of Industry, Mines and Commerce, and Perspolis to the Ministry of Economy. Before the decision, both clubs were owned by the Ministry of Sports and Youths.
Currently, the members of the Commission of Esteghlal and Perspolis include the ministers of sports and youths, justice, and the economy. Three other ministers are supposed to be added to the commission.
The Asian Football Confederation, AFC, has removed both clubs from the current season of the Champions League.
The AFC did so on the grounds that Esteghlal and Perspolis have failed to meet a set of criteria to obtain the club licensing required for participation in the Champions League competitions.
The license is given after a club meets criteria in five sections – sporting, infrastructure, and personnel as well as with regard to administration, legality, and finance.