Sports are a major passion in Iran, with deep roots in both traditional practices and modern international competition.
* **Wrestling & Weightlifting:** Wrestling is considered the national sport, deeply tied to the ancient traditions of the *Varzesh-e Pahlavani* (practiced in a *Zurkhaneh* or "house of strength"). Iran consistently wins Olympic and World Championship medals in freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling, as well as weightlifting. * **Football (Soccer):** Football is the most popular modern sport. The national team, **Team Melli**, is a powerhouse in Asian football. The domestic league features massive rivalries, particularly the Tehran derby between **Persepolis** and **Esteghlal**, played at the 80,000-capacity **Azadi Stadium**. * **Volleyball & Basketball:** In recent decades, Iran has developed world-class men's volleyball and basketball teams, frequently winning Asian championships and competing highly on the global stage.