Podium Photos

"Stars of the Finish Line" by / Podium Photos

We enter the world of athletes whose paths are governed by a different set of unwritten rules—a world where victory is not defined by the scoreboard, but by the pure beating of hearts.
The athletes with intellectual disabilities before us do not move to defeat an opponent; they move to release the love within them. In their honesty and purity, one can trace the footsteps of sport’s true, perpetual winners.

With every step, every glance, and every effort, they remind us of a simple, human truth: sport, above all else, can be an expression of feeling—a space where the pure and sincere emotions surging within them are allowed to blossom.

Here, the allure of sport lies not in the final result, but in the unfiltered passion of these beautiful human beings—those whose presence reminds us that the essence of sport is joy, enthusiasm, and freedom, not medals and not records. And perhaps for this very reason, they are, in the truest sense, the everlasting winners of this arena.

RED Identity by / Guest section.

Tractor Club of Tabriz, founded in 1970, is more than just a football team—it is a symbol of identity and unity for the Turks of Iran. It is recognized as the most popular club in Iran and one of the most well-attended teams in Asia. The passionate fans, known as “Tiraxtur fans” or “Titis,” fill Yadegar-e Emam Stadium and travel in large numbers even for away matches. Much like Liverpool and Barcelona, Tractor has become a social symbol and the voice of the Turks of Iran. Its supporters not only stand for football but also for social justice, and during the club’s historic championship after 55 years, they set records with unforgettable chants. Today, Tractor embodies the love, hope, and identity of people who see football as a means of unity and joy.

Wrestling from an overview
2015

Here is my colourless world of sports, from where it is possible to observe a competition in silence, with no enthusiasm, and drown beyond the imaginations.

Wresling from an overview series by .photos has been awarded the 1st sport story section of the Istanbul Photo Awards in 2015.

Thoughts of Flight
2021

In 2013, Saeed Ramin, an Iranian professional traceur, landed on a mat during an illegal competition, resulting in a spinal cord injury to his neck. The severity of the injury left him with limited mobility, only able to blink. According to his doctors, it was believed that he would be unable to sit in a wheelchair. However, through dedicated rehabilitation and unwavering confidence, Saeed defied expectations and regained some of his abilities, now residing in a wheelchair.

Just one year after the incident, Saeed crossed paths with Maedeh, one of his interns, and their relationship blossomed over time. After six years, they celebrated their marriage, united in their belief that Saeed will one day rise from his wheelchair.

The sport of parkour gained popularity in Iran following the appearance of two Iranian traceurs in the documentary “Jump London.” In 2003. However, in 2010, parkour was declared illegal in Iran due to its perceived high-risk nature. Despite the remarkable performances of Iranian traceurs at the World Championships in Turkey, the sport lacks the necessary administration in Iran to prevent irrecoverable damages and injuries through proper support and professional training.

Thoughts of flight story by .eslahi has been awarded the 3rd prize in Sports Story in the 2021 World Press Photo Award

Rooftop
2020

In response to the Corona virus outbreak on March 15th, 2020, the Iranian government announced the immediate closure of all athletic venues, sports clubs, tournaments, and sports training centres across the country. This necessary measure remained in effect until further notice.

In the face of these restrictions, Iranian athletes found a unique solution to maintain their physical and mental fitness. They embraced rooftop training, utilizing the open spaces atop their homes. By taking to the rooftops, these dedicated athletes strove to keep their skills sharp and their spirits high during those challenging times.

Rooftop story by .saleh has been awarded for the 2021 Sony World Photography Awards