Sports are once again at the forefront of gender issues in Iran, highlighting the complicated position of women in Iranian society and sports. As part of support for the national soccer team at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, Iranian families were allowed to watch matches at Azadi Stadium in Tehran. Although Azadi Stadium had previously hosted numerous events -- namely the 1998 World Cup qualifier between Australia and Iran -- this year saw an equally important milestone: After almost four decades of being barred from entry, women were allowed into the stadium to support the national team.
