Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
PhD Student, Department of Sport Management, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
2
PhD Student, Department of Sports Management, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
3
Professor, Department of Sport Management, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran
10.22084/smms.2025.25769.3014
Abstract
Objective: This study investigates the underlying reasons behind the Iranian Football Federation’s repeated failures in securing the hosting rights of international events, while identifying the strategic dimensions critical for successful hosting within Asian football.
Methodology: The research employed a mixed-methods approach with an applied orientation. In the qualitative phase, purposive sampling of sport experts was conducted based on professional expertise, executive experience, and theoretical insight. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. In the quantitative phase, findings from the qualitative stage informed the design of a researcher-made questionnaire using a five-point Likert scale. Content validity was confirmed by 10 professors of sport management, and reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha. The sample included managers, coaches, athletes, academics, media representatives, and fans, with data analyzed via structural equation modeling in SmartPLS 3.
Results: Results identified 44 indicators across five domains managerial, infrastructural, economic, cultural, and legal as the main determinants leading to Iran’s disqualification.
Conclusion: The study highlights the necessity of redesigning hosting policies, strengthening technical infrastructure, improving governance structures, and enhancing the capacity of sports diplomacy at the international level to elevate Iran’s position in hosting competitions.
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