Seyyed Dariush Mostafavi (September 17, 1944 – August 10, 1404 / August 1, 2025) was one of the most notable figures in the history of Iranian football. From his early days as a gifted defender on the pitch to his influential—yet controversial—stint as a football administrator, Mostafavi’s life spanned the many transformations of Iran’s sporting and political landscapes. He remains a complex character, remembered both for his achievements and the debates that surrounded his role in the management of Iranian football.
Early Life and Youth Football
Born on September 17, 1944, in Tehran, Seyyed Dariush Mostafavi entered the world of football during the golden years of Iranian club development. Football in the 1950s and 60s was still maturing in Iran, and Tehran was its beating heart. Mostafavi’s early talent quickly became apparent, and he began his professional journey with Tehran Javan, a local team that nurtured his foundational skills and competitive instincts.
