Iranian Women Watch World Cup matches after 37 years

Iranian women were allowed into Tehran’s Azadi Stadium for the first time in 37 years on Wednesday to
watch Iran’s FIFA 2018 World Cup clash against Spain on television.

Women were banned from entering stadiums in Iran, but permission was given for female fans to support
their national team.

This is coming on the heels of a protest by the women who used the World Cup to kick against their ban.

In May 2018, five Iranian women disguised themselves as men to gain entry to a match between Persepolis
and Sepidrood Rasht, as reported by the Daily Sabah (h/t Thomas Bristow of the Daily Mirror).

Iranian women were also part of the party that traveled to Russia to cheer their team.

It’s a historic moment for Iran although it remains to be seen if there will be a permanent change and
women will be allowed to enter stadiums to watch live sporting events going forward.