Estegal’s Strategic Expansion: Forging a New Dynasty in Iranian Wrestling
In a significant move to broaden its sporting influence, the Esteghlal Club has officially entered the world of wrestling. A high-level meeting between Dr. Ali Tajernia, the Chairman of the Board and Managing Director of Esteghlal Club, and Alireza Dabir, the President of Iran’s Wrestling Federation, culminated in a strategic agreement to develop the club’s presence in both Freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling.
A Powerhouse Alliance
This new partnership marks a concerted effort by one of Iran’s most prominent sports clubs to expand its athletic empire. The collaboration between the club’s management and the national federation underscores a shared vision for strengthening Iran’s wrestling infrastructure at the club level, a sport in which the nation has a storied and celebrated history.
Freestyle Ambitions in a Wrestling Heartland
As part of the strategic plan, the Esteghlal Freestyle wrestling team will be established in the city of Juybar, a region renowned as a cradle of Iranian wrestling talent. The team, to be named Esteghlal Juybar, will compete in Iran’s premier Freestyle wrestling league. This placement strategically roots the club’s new venture in an area with a deep cultural connection to the sport.
A Champion-Led Technical Team
To ensure a strong start, the management has appointed a distinguished leadership team for Esteghlal Juybar. The technical helm will be guided by Olympic champion Kamel Qasemi, with Asadollah Rezaei serving as team supervisor, under the overarching management of Salman Qaderi’s team. This appointment of a celebrated Olympic figure signals the club’s serious commitment to achieving competitive excellence.
Greco-Roman Expansion in Qom
The expansion is not limited to Freestyle wrestling. Plans are also underway to launch an Esteghlal Greco-Roman wrestling team in the holy city of Qom, with the clear objective of securing a place in the top-tier national league for this discipline. The names of the wrestlers who will comprise the rosters for both the Juybar and Qom teams are set to be announced by the club in the near future.