The news of Esteghlal FC's captain Hossein Hosseini's suspension and fine for hugging a female fan has been slammed worldwide with coverage in countries including the UK, Spain, Kenya, and China.
The incident occurred on April 12 when a female fan attempted to avoid arrest for not wearing the hijab by running on the pitch and hugging Hosseini. A fine of three billion Iranian rials (roughly $4,500) was imposed on the player, along with a one-game suspension from the team. Ole, the Argentinian sports news website, called the incident a “scandal.”
Hosseini stated that he would pay the fine, asserting that "three billion rials for the sake of a female fan of Esteghlal is well worth it" which infuriated officials.
In response, the IRGC-affiliated Fars News Agency launched a campaign demanding further actions against Hosseini, resulting in an additional 300 million rial ($7,000) fine on Monday.
It is not the first time the woman in question, Sahar Khodayari, has garnered international media attention. In September 2019, she set herself on fire after being sentenced to six months in prison for attempting to enter a stadium disguised as a male supporter during a match between Esteghlal and Al Ain.
Hoseeini's case has revived debate over women's access to stadiums in Iran, a contentious issue that has attracted international attention and criticism.
Although FIFA continues to push for women's inclusion in football stadiums, governmental opposition citing inadequate infrastructure continues to limit their presence, resulting in sporadic admissions under strict rules.
