Azadi Sport Complex

One of the most prominent national sport complexes in the capital of Iran is Azadi Sport Complex, located at the 5th kilometer of the Tehran-Karaj freeway, west of Tehran. This complex has been built with various and multi-purpose sports fields and halls, with advanced facilities and equipment, in accordance with international standards. Accordingly, it is one of the top stadiums in Asia and the Middle East.

The design and construction of Azadi Sport Complex was completed in 1971 and it was inaugurated two days after the opening of Azadi Tower. The first match was played in this venue and in its 100,000-seat stadium between the two football teams of Persepolis of Iran and Cruzeiro Esporte Clube of Brazil. The initial impetus for the construction of this huge complex, which covers 460 hectares of land, was the hosting of the Asian Games in 1974.

Currently, Azadi Stadium is the main venue for the home games of the Iranian national football team and the two main teams of the capital, namely Persepolis and Esteghlal. Azadi Sport Complex is managed by the Ministry of Sports and Youth and the Development and Maintenance of Sports Facilities of Iran Company.

Azadi Sport Complex has several sections; 100,000-seat stadium, 12,000-seat hall, shooting hall, skating rink, Azadi karting and racetrack, lake, a complex of courts, pools, fields, gyms and halls for different type of sports as well as women's hall are just a few facilities of this huge venue. Some of the administrative departments of different sports federations are also located there. Needless to say, there are various academies and camps that make this place more entertaining. In terms of facilities and amenities, this complex includes the Olympic Hotel, several dormitories, a restaurant, a fire station and a clinic.

To access the Azadi sport complex are many and very simple ways. You can get off the train at Azadi Square station via Tehran Metro Line 4 and then take a bus or taxi to the stadium. Or get off the train at Line 2 (Sadeghieh Station) and then get on the Karaj train (line 5) and get off at the next two stations at Azadi Stadium. If you decide to go by individual car, this complex has enough space for a car park. 

Azadi Sport Complex in Tehran has been recognized as one of the top 20 stadiums in the world according to world media reports in 2013. Azadi Tower, Museum of Earth Sciences, Sharif University of Technology and Mehrabad Airport can be named as top attractions and places near this stadium.