The Taj Cultural and Sports Organization holds a significant place in the history of Iranian sports. Founded in the final years of World War II, it evolved from a modest cycling club into one of the largest and most influential sports organizations in the world, second only to Real Madrid in terms of assets and property. This document explores the history, evolution, and impact of the Taj Cultural and Sports Organization, highlighting its role in promoting various sports disciplines and its eventual transformation into the Esteghlal Sports Club after the 1979 Iranian Revolution.
Early Beginnings
In the waning days of World War II, a group of cycling enthusiasts in Tehran sought to organize the sport more formally. On October 25, 1945, the Cyclist Club was established on Ferdowsi Street in Tehran, marking the beginning of what would become the Taj Cultural and Sports Organization. This period was marked by significant geopolitical changes, with Iran recovering from occupation by Allied forces during the war. The club’s establishment reflected a broader societal push towards normalcy and development in post-war Iran.