In a brief communique, Ali Kaffashian has announced the appointment of Mr. Mahmoud Islamian as the deputy President of the Football Federation FFIRI.
Islamian, who is an industrialist and former University Professor, has graduated from Canada’s Victoria University. He has held several managerial and executive posts mainly in the Iron and Steel industry.
His sporting management background started with being a member of the executive committee of his home town club, Sepahan, then Zob Ahan , before a short stint in the same capacity at Mes Kerman and then finally the FFIRI.
Islamian is one of the unknown qualities of the executive committee. He has hardly figured in the media. His management skill in the industry is well documented and praised, however in Football, he is not been tested in earnest.
The media was quick to relate this appointment with the likely ousted of Ali Kaffashian from his position. Islamian seems to be supported by the Sports Ministry, the biggest behind the scene power broker in Iran’s football.
When Kaffashian was faced with the question if this appointment means in any way that he (Kaffashian) will be resigning, in his customary grin, the head of FFIRI responded philosophically and said “I am not supposed to stay in my position for ever and someday I have to vacate the post. I have not said or indicted that I will resign any time soon, though. Give the man (Islamian) a few days to settle down and at least get familiar with his job before you journalists come up with such suggestions. “
“I know that I have been a big burden on you people, but tolerate me a little more.” Kaffashian said in one of his dark humor.
Ali Kaffashian is a shrewd survivor and has proven a tough nut to crack. He has survived many attempts to oust him from his post by his opponents, of which the Ministry of Sports is the main adversary. The beleaguered Boss of FFIRI , has continued to remain calm and respectful even against the harshest of criticism , some of which were close to personal insult. He maintains his stand of not engaging in public debates or questioning the characters of his opponents, never responding to harsh critics at equal intensity. His self-defense always remains dignified, respectful and well within the boundary of decency while addressing his critics not forgetting his trademark grin. That might be one secret of his survival. Being such a nice guy for some or a person with a “thick skin” to others perhaps attracts some sympathy towards him!
Islamian will be taking over from Ayatollahei who was pushed aside a month ago in a sweeping reform of the football federation.