Iran goalkeeper Hossien Hossieni has been banned for hugging a female fan with no hijab on.
Hosseini’s who was seen hugging a female fan with her hijab off was banned due to such action, his actions went against Islamic precepts regarding physical contact between individuals of the opposite sex. Which also deemed him as “unprofessional”.
In a video footage, the goalkeeper noticed a female fan who had made her way to the side of the pitch. Her hijab reportedly fell, and security approached her. The goalkeeper intervened, motioning for security to step back because there was no threat. He then embraced her briefly before security stepped in again and pulled him away.
In Iran, wearing hijabs, or headscarves, has been mandatory for women since the 1979 revolution. While some Muslim women around the world view it as a matter of personal choice, in Iran, it is enforced as a requirement.
After the goalkeeper embraced the fan, he was escorted off the pitch. There was a small scuffle, and some fans in the stands threw objects at security. However, the fans also showed support by applauding both the goalkeeper and the fan as he left the pitch.
According to reports, spectators expressed their anger by chanting “shame on you” towards the security personnel who remained on the pitch. After Hosseini was taken away.
Hosseini, who has represented the national team 11 times, received a fine of approximately £3,800. Hosseini was also suspended for one game due to his “unprofessional” actions, which were considered to go beyond the legal duties of a player.
