Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop a model of factors affecting sport performance and success of football clubs. This research was qualitative and the Grounded theory method was used with a systematic approach. The required data were obtained from library studies and interviews with elites and celebrities of Iranian football. The statistical population of the study included managers, coaches and players of former and current Iranian football clubs. The sampling method was purposive and the data was obtained by conducting 16 in-depth semi-structured individual interviews to reach the theoretical saturation stage. Data collected from interviews was analyzed at three levels of open coding, axial coding and selective coding.In data analysis, 13 important categories; financial strength, players, technical staff, facilities and equipment, club academy, training camps and competitions, support from spectators, fans, locals and the government, training, talent identification process, effective and efficient management, grassroots teams, brand and club history and educational programs were explained as factors affecting on the sport performance and success of football clubs. Paying attention to the explained factors while stabilizing the optimal sport performance of successful clubs can significantly help to improve the poorer sport performance of other football clubs. Also, the designed model can be a model and guide for other sports clubs to achieve success and progress.