Introduction of the Issue
Ali Reza Biranvand, Iran’s national team goalkeeper, is set to begin military service in 1405. He has played in three World Cups and may qualify for the ‘warrior exemption’.
Warrior Exemption Law
In previous years, laws titled Warrior Exemption were announced for sporting champions. This law includes Olympic champions, world champions, and Asian champions in sports covered by the IOC. According to Article 4, first to third place Olympic athletes, first and second place world championship athletes, first place Asian championship athletes in IOC‑covered sports, as well as first to third place World Cup football, basketball, and volleyball athletes, and one child of a world Paralympic champion are exempt from military service.
Current Challenges
If a legal way for Biranvand to escape military service is not found, it is suggested that national team football soldiers could benefit from this. The argument is that his participation in three World Cups is equivalent to the champion status of some non‑football sports athletes. However, it is still unclear whether he will play for a military football team during service, and why lawmakers are seeking to amend the law.
Financial and Social Impact
Since players play for military football teams during service, their income may decrease. But for young people who go to military service without jobs or special skills, changing this law could have significant financial and social effects.
Conclusion
In short, Biranvand will begin military service in 1405 and has played in three World Cups. If the warrior exemption law changes, he may benefit from the exemption. Otherwise, he will have to play for a military team and keep the national team.
