Iran's national football team drew 1-1 against Egypt in their last match. Meanwhile, there has been extensive debate over the 140 billion rial payment to Amir Ghalenoei, the team's coach, as a bonus. This payment, which Ghalenoei claims was his right as coach, has been widely criticized.
Why is this payment illegal?
According to the newspaper E'temad, the 140 billion rial payment to Amir Ghalenoei, coach of Iran's national football team, is illegal and improper. This amount, received as a bonus, has been criticized as it is much higher than his contract amount of 30 billion rial. Ghalenoei confirmed this amount in a live TV program and said he had 'sacrificed' by accepting it in rial.
What is the norm for bonus payments in football?
In football, bonus payments are usually based on custom and are proportional to the contract amount. For example, Carlos Queiroz, the former national team coach, received 10% of the total bonus for Iran's qualification to the 2014 World Cup. However, the 140 billion rial payment to Ghalenoei, which is much higher than his contract amount, is considered illegal and against custom.
What have been the reactions to this payment?
This payment has been widely criticized. Many believe that such a payment is unjustifiable in the current economic conditions of the country. Some also believe that paying such an amount to an individual, while people are facing economic problems, is unethical.
Iran's national football team has won two and drawn three of their last five matches and is currently unbeaten in their last five games. The team is currently preparing for the 2026 World Cup.
