FIFA chief hails access for women to Iran stadium

Infantino welcomed the news that women had been allowed into Thursday’s Iran Pro League match as a sign of its success, Reuters reported.

“In September, I had the pleasure of meeting Iran President Ebrahim Raeisi in New York City, where we discussed the development of women’s football in the country and progress made regarding the presence of women in football stadiums,” he said in a statement released on social media.

“It was, therefore, with great delight that I learned around 3,000 women attended the Tehran derby between Persepolis FC and Esteghlal FC.

Infantino said he would be traveling to Iran in the near future and would again meet President Raeisi “to further discuss football-related matters”.

“Iran is a significant force in Asian football and it is important that we continue to nurture the positive and fruitful working relationship we have built,” he added.

AMK/TT