PERSEPOLIS FC – IRAN

Persepolis FC Tehran, one of the most prestigious and successful football clubs in Iran and Asia, was established on July 17, 1963 (26 Tir 1342 in the Iranian calendar). The club was founded by Hossein Qodossi and members of the Iranian Football Federation, with the aim of creating a strong and influential team at both national and international levels.

1960s and 1970s: The Rise of a Power

In the 1960s and 1970s, Persepolis quickly emerged as one of the leading football teams in Iran. The club, with prominent coaches and talented players, achieved significant success in Tehran League and the Takht Jamshid League (the predecessor of the current Persian Gulf Pro League). Notable achievements included winning the Takht Jamshid League in 1967 and 1970, marking the team’s initial prominence.

Post-Revolution Period: Challenges and Changes

Following the Islamic Revolution in 1979, Persepolis faced extensive changes. Transformations in club structure, economic difficulties, and managerial issues led to numerous challenges. Despite these difficulties, the club continued to survive and showed resilience, maintaining a competitive edge in various periods.

1980s and 1990s: The Golden Era

The 1980s and 1990s are considered the golden era of Persepolis. During this period, the club secured several championships in the domestic league and cup competitions, solidifying its status as a top team in Iranian football. Notable successes included winning the Iranian league in 1985 and 1996, and the Hazfi Cup in 1992 and 1993.

2000s: Era of Challenges and Transformation

Entering the 2000s, Persepolis encountered various financial and managerial crises that impacted its performance. Nevertheless, the club continued its efforts, adapting through changes in management and coaching. This era saw the arrival of both foreign and domestic coaches with different styles, influencing the team’s performance in varying ways.

2010s and 2020s: Revival and Success

In recent decades, Persepolis has once again risen to prominence as one of the leading teams in Iranian and Asian football. Under the guidance of successful coaches like Branko Ivanković and Yahya Golmohammadi, Persepolis achieved significant successes. Notable accomplishments include winning the Iranian league multiple times (2017, 2018, 2020) and being a runner-up in the AFC Champions League (2018).

Achievements and Honors

Persepolis has won 14 Iranian Pro League titles, 7 Hazfi Cups, and 2 Iranian Super Cups to date. On the international stage, the club has reached the final of the AFC Champions League twice and is recognized as one of Asia’s reputable teams.

With a distinguished history and a large fan base, Persepolis remains a symbol of strength and prestige in Iranian football, continually striving for new successes at both national and international levels.