Iranian Football League Organization Announces Conclusion Date for Persian Gulf Pro League and AFC Club Competition Slots, Introduces Punishments for Unsportsmanlike Conduct

The Iranian Football League Organization has set the conclusion date for the Persian Gulf Pro League (PGPL) and clarified the allocation of AFC club competition slots for Iranian teams. In response to recent accusatory remarks from coaches and repetitive club statements against opponents, the Organization has issued a list of punishments for offending managers and coaches.

The PGPL is scheduled to wrap up before June 3rd, pending approval by the national team coach. The remaining Hazfi Cup matches, including the semi-finals and final, will be held post the FIFA international break, with the final anticipated to occur by June 21st, marking the conclusion of the 2023/24 club season. Up to four Iranian sides will vie in the upcoming AFC Champions League.

The Asian club competition structure will see a shift next year, replacing the current AFC Champions League with an Elite League and an ACL2. For Elite League Qualification, the top two teams from the 23rd PGPL season will directly enter, while the Hazfi Cup winners will partake in a playoff for the remaining slot. The third-placed PGPL team secures a spot in the ACL2, with playoff losers from the Elite League also entering the competition.

Regarding tiebreakers for the PGPL title, in the event of tied points between teams, the head-to-head record will decide the champions. Goal difference comes into play if head-to-head records are equal, followed by goals scored as the final determinant.

The League Organization is cracking down on unsportsmanlike behavior, implementing penalties for those persisting with accusatory comments or repetitive jabs against rivals. The imposed sanctions involve substantial financial fines, with the Organization intending to foster a more respectful and fair football environment in Iran.