Published 19:55 IST, September 22nd 2019
FIFA orders Iran to allow women free access to football stadiums
FIFA asks Iran to allow women unlimited access to football stadiums. The announcement came after the tragic ‘Blue girl’ in which a woman killed herself
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In the wake of the 'Blue girl' incident where a woman killed herself after being arrested trying to access a football stadium a FIFA delegation has demanded Iran allow women free unlimited access to stadiums. FIFA travelled to Iran ahead of the weekend for talks on the matter of women and football and released a statement Sunday.
Women should get free and unlimited access
In the statement released by FIFA, it said “FIFA has reiterated its firm and clear position that women need to be allowed to enter football matches freely and that the number of women who attend the stadiums be determined by the demand, resulting in ticket sales,” According to the reports the Islamic republic has restricted the women spectators to play football or to enter the stadiums since 1981. The clerics argued that women should be protected from the world of masculinity and the semi-clad men. However, FIFA announced against the patriarchal dominance. The women should be given as equal opportunities as men. FIFA also said to international media that a proper plan will be deployed along with the Iranian football federation to ensure that women can also watch domestic matches in stadiums.
The 'Blue Girl'
Sahar Khodayari, dubbed "blue girl" because of the colours of the team she supported, Esteghlal FC. She was reportedly arrested last year when she was trying to enter the stadium dressed as a man to watch her favourite team play. In early September it was reported that she died due to her injuries while she was admitted to Tehran hospital. The girl reportedly set herself on fire in front of the court after she was arrested. Her death sparked protests and outcry on social media. Several people demanded FIFA, the football federation to put a ban on Iran from participating in international competitions and also asked fans to boycott matches.
(with PTI inputs)
17:37 IST, September 22nd 2019