The 2026 World Cup debut of Iran's national soccer team comes amid a backdrop of political uncertainty and international tensions. For many Iranians, however, sports have long been a blend of athleticism, identity, and politics.

Iranian athlete Hadi Tiranvalipour, who left his career in 2022 to seek asylum, reflects on the complexities of pursuing dreams under state control. While some athletes find pride in representing their nation, others like Kimia Alizadeh opt for international stages free from such constraints.

Sports in Iran’s history are deeply rooted in culture and identity, with figures like Gholam Reza Takhti embodying the heroic spirit of modern-day Iranian athletes. Yet, since 1979, the landscape has shifted significantly due to state control, leading to disparities between male and female athletes.

Notable movements such as women’s soccer have gained momentum under increasing internal and global pressure, but progress remains challenging. Katayoun Khosrowyar, a pioneer in Iranian women's sports, underscores the ongoing battle for recognition and equality on the field.