Tractor SC, a football club founded by a state-owned company, has reached the pinnacle of Iranian football, winning its first championship after a 55-year journey. This victory is celebrated not only as a sports achievement but also as a symbol of pride for Azerbaijani Turks in Iran, who have long faced marginalization. Supporting the club has fostered a stronger cultural identity among fans, who use football as a platform to express their grievances and aspirations, challenging the central Persian narrative and advocating for representation and recognition.
"Supporting the football club has become a way to push back and assert Azeri pride and identity, with chants and songs recalling ancient heroes and advocating for representation."
"The relationship with the club and Tehran has been mixed ever since, as Tractor started to become a force on the pitch and a focal point off it."
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