Representatives from the Japanese Embassy met with officials from the Iranian Karate Federation on Tuesday, solidifying a commitment to further cooperation between the two nations in the realm of karate. According to Baran Press, "Iranian and Japanese karate are not rivals, but help each other," stated the head of the Iranian Karate Federation, Mazda Sufi. Sufi paid tribute to Master Funakoshi, calling him the "Father of Modern Karate" and acknowledging his significant contributions to the global growth of the authentic oriental art. The meeting yielded a commitment to enhancing cooperation. Sufi expressed Iran's readiness to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Japan, aiming to foster the development of karate and sports, while adhering to both ...

The President of the Iranian Karate Federation (IKF), Mazda Sofi, held a significant meeting with World Karate Federation (WKF) President Antonio Espinos during the 2024 Karate World Cup in Spain.  According to Baran Press, the meeting focused on the state of karate in Iran and Sofi delivered a comprehensive report detailing the current state of the Karate in Iran.  He expressed gratitude to Espinos for his 25 years of service, specifically highlighting his instrumental role in securing karate's place in the Olympic Games.  President Espinos, in response, acknowledged Iran's strong showing at the World Cup, particularly the Iranian men's team kumite's second-place finish. He praised Iran's high standing in the world of karate, emphasizing that the ...

The president of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), Gianni Infantino, recently drew international attention to a grassroots football field in the Iranian village of Lialman, near Lahijan. According to Baran Press: Infantino shared a photograph of the field on his official Instagram page, highlighting the passion for football in the region. The image, captured by Iranian photographer Mehrdad Gerami, showcases a simple yet vibrant football pitch nestled within the community. Infantino's accompanying caption: IR Iran loves football and this pitch in a village near Lahijan, Gilan, captured wonderfully by Mehrdad Gerami, is a fitting representation of their passion for our beautiful game. Football is for everyone, everywhere This ...