Identification and analysis of International Challenges and Drivers of Elite Sports of the Islamic Republic of Iran

 Introduction
Historically, the most popular form of sport is championship or elite sport, which emphasizes competition, victory, and bonding with society through participation and spectatorship The Islamic Republic of Iran, as one of the poles of the Middle East region and a prominent country in Asia and the world, has great potential in its efforts to present a positive image of itself through soft power in the cultural, political, social, and especially sports fields. In this direction, it has been largely successful in some areas, but given the power and acceptance of sports, especially elite sports as a category, it is always associated with a peaceful image at the international level. On the other hand, the problems and challenges of the international level of sports, understanding the international environment of elite sports, international organizations and institutions, legal issues, etc. require recognition and attention, as well as identification and awareness of the opportunities for international presence. Also, its effects and consequences on the macro-levels of the country require scientific research to properly explain this area.
 
 Methodology
The research method was a strategic study based on a qualitative mix (structured exploration approach). In developing and analyzing the research framework, qualitative and strategic concepts, approaches, and methods were simultaneously used. The statistical population of the study was scientific experts (university professors knowledgeable about the subject) and executives (managers, experts, athletes, and others). On the other hand, the study sample included two sections: human resources (experts knowledgeable about the subject of the study), which consisted of 30 people (Table 1) and information sources (related to the subject of the study). In addition to semi-guided interviews with experts, which were mostly conducted in person and a small number were conducted virtually or by telephone, all available and accessible information in databases, websites, scientific, library, document, and media resources related to the research topic was also collected and systematically reviewed.
 
 Results
Challenges related to the internationalization of Iranian elite sports, according to findings extracted from interviews with research experts, include political and governance challenges, management and executive challenges, legal and regulatory challenges, financial and commercial challenges, socio-cultural challenges, technical and competitive challenges, media and communication challenges, competitive challenges, There were human capital challenges, scientific challenges, infrastructure challenges, and support challenges. International requirements and drivers of elite sports based on the opinions of research experts, including requirements related to international competitions, financial and economic requirements, media and communication requirements, cultural and social requirements, management and governance requirements, tourism and business requirements, requirements related to international relations in sports, and requirements for services to athletes. 
  Conclusion
Championship or elite sports are the showcase of sports not only in Iran but also in most countries around the world, and governments are seeking to increase their international image and prestige by investing heavily in this field. The challenges in this area at the international level will negatively impact the performance of elite teams and athletes, and the need to address, identify, and eliminate them is an important action by officials from the Ministry of Sports and Youth, the National Olympic Committee, sports federations, and other decision-making institutions. On the other hand, the support of politicians and influential people at important levels of the country's management for championship sports and elite athletes, whose performance has very important consequences for the country, such as creating national cohesion, national and international pride, waving the flag and playing the national anthem in international arenas, gaining international prestige, and developing sports.
Keywords: elite sports, elite athletes, international events, Iran.
JEL Classification: Z14, Z15