Death and Legacy
Seyyed Dariush Mostafavi passed away on August 1, 2025 (coinciding with 10 Mordad 1404 in the Iranian calendar), after a long battle with cancer. His death was widely reported in Iranian sports media, and tributes poured in from both former teammates and federation officials.
Despite the controversies that marred his later life, he is remembered as a pioneer of Iranian football, a player who wore the shirts of both Taj and Persepolis, and a federation chief who brought Iran back to the World Cup.
A Complex Legacy
Seyyed Dariush Mostafavi’s legacy is multifaceted:
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As a player, he symbolized grit, determination, and skill—especially in his standout performances for Taj and Persepolis.
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As a federation president, he achieved the dream of an entire generation by guiding Iran to the 1998 World Cup.
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As a manager, he made bold decisions, sometimes clashing with the political and administrative establishment.
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As a critic, he stood against what he perceived as injustice—even at the cost of his lifelong connection to football.
While his career ended in dispute, the historical weight of his contributions cannot be denied. Mostafavi helped shape one of the most transformative eras of Iranian football.