Hazfi Cup (Iran) 2025/26

The Hazfi Cup (Jām-e Hazfi) serves as the primary domestic knockout football competition in Iran, organized by the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI). Founded in 1976 as the Pahlavi Cup, the tournament was renamed following the 1979 Iranian Revolution and resumed play in 1986 after a suspension caused by regional conflict.

The event sits as the second-most important domestic trophy after the Persian Gulf Pro League, the country’s top-tier league. Its format utilizes a multi-stage knockout structure that allows teams from all levels to compete. Approximately 86 teams participate, including sides from the Provincial Leagues, the Azadegan League, and the top flight. Teams from the Persian Gulf Pro League enter directly at the Round of 32, while lower-tier clubs enter earlier stages.

Since the 2011–12 season, the final has been decided by a single match at a neutral venue, replacing the previous two-legged system. The competition does not involve promotion or relegation. Instead, the primary prize is the trophy and qualification for the AFC Champions League Elite qualifying play-offs, a status confirmed since 2024.

Esteghlal FC holds the record for the most titles with eight victories, followed closely by Persepolis FC with seven. As of the 2024–25 season, Esteghlal remains the current holder after defeating Malavan in the final. The tournament is distinct in its ability to pit lower-tier teams against established giants, a dynamic that has historically produced significant upsets and draws attention from supporters across all divisions.