Esteghlal (formerly known as Taj) is one of the most famous football (soccer) clubs in Iran's Premier Football League, established in around 1950, and won many cups in different competitions. Esteghlal and Persepolis are presently the two most popular football clubs in Iran, however in recent years their dominance has been seriously threatened by other clubs like Sepahan.

The club have won the Asian Champions Cup on two occasions, in 1970 and 1991.