Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
PhD Student in Sports Management, Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Na.C., Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran
2
Associate Professor of Sports Management, Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Na.C., Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran
3
Assistant Professor of Sports Management, Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Na.C., Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran
4
Assistant Professor of Motor Behavior, Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Na.C,, Islamic Azad University, Najafabad, Iran
Abstract
Iranian football, as a socio-economic phenomenon, requires strategic planning and precise foresight to ensure sustainable development. This study aims to integrate scenario planning and stakeholder analysis to bridge the analytical gap and predict the developmental trajectories of this sport. Employing a foresight research approach, the study utilizes both intuitive logic scenario planning and critical stakeholder analysis. Key driving forces, including government policies, private investment, sports infrastructure, social awareness, and media coverage, were identified and analyzed. Participants comprised key stakeholders, including government entities, the Football Federation, clubs, coaches, players, media representatives, and fans, selected through purposive and random sampling. Scenario planning was conducted using a 2×2 matrix, and stakeholders’ strategies were evaluated across different scenarios. Findings indicate four primary scenarios for the future of Iranian football, where in the most favorable case, strong governmental support and substantial investment lead to sustainable growth, while in the worst case, weak policy support and insufficient funding result in stagnation. Stakeholder analysis revealed that the government and the Football Federation wield the greatest influence in shaping these scenarios. Achieving sustainable development necessitates strategies such as stable financial support, infrastructure enhancement, strengthening media involvement, and increasing social awareness. This study underscores the critical role of stakeholder interactions and strategic policy making in steering Iranian football toward a path of growth and progress.
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