Exploring the Reasons for the Migration of Iranian Elite Athletes: A Thematic Analysis

Introduction

The 21st century is characterized by unprecedented levels of international human migration, resulting in profound transformations in the global landscape and in the demographic makeup of countries and continents worldwide that may pose substantial challenges to social and political structures (Nesterova et al., 2015). Elite migration involves the movement of highly skilled individuals, posing challenges such as brain drain, economic disparity, cultural integration issues, and potential loss of talent in home countries (Baru, 2025). The migration of elites in any field is considered to be a loss of a part of a nation's capital, which deprives the country of utilizing this capacity and resource. Since human capital plays a decisive role in economic growth and development, filling the deep technological gap, reducing the role of natural comparative advantage, and increasing the role of acquired comparative advantage in developing countries (Esmaelzadeh & Zaker Salehi, 2015), losing this capacity can cause irreparable damages to the country's growth and development path in both the short and long term. Different countries, in order to overcome backwardness and achieve desirable development, are compelled to invest in cultivating and developing their human factors; however, this investment may benefit other countries due to phenomena known as migration.

One of the important challenges that threat the developing countries is migration of expert human resources in different fields. Human resources and skilled forces are assets of a country and are considered the key competitive advantage and the scarcest resource in a knowledge-based economy (Wang & Liu, 2016). Efforts to preserve and retain them can contribute to sustainable development across various sectors. Despite the high costs and investments made by developing countries to train specialized human resources, just when they should benefit from these investments and utilize them for economic growth and reducing technological gaps, they face movements toward the transfer and migration of their human capital. In recent decades, about 92% of the top five performers in international Olympiads and competitions have migrated from their home country annually, and according to official statistics, the estimated annual damage to Iran’s economy caused by the inability to retain this human capital exceeds $150 billion (Azimi et al., 2019). These official and unofficial statistics about the extent and scope of elite migration in Iran clearly indicate that the outflow of skilled human resources with high and effective human capital has become a political, economic, and social issue in the country, raising many fears and concerns. Migration can influence the formation of a country's human capital and leave irreversible effects on various sectors (Boucher et al., 2007). Although migration also occurs from one developed country to another, in less developed or developing countries like Iran, this phenomenon, especially regarding elites and specialists poses very serious challenges.

Athletes are among the skilled and technical forces, like other specialists, pursue their professional aspirations by migrating to advanced countries (Favero, 2008). With the increasing migration of athletes in recent years, in Iranian sports (Bagheri et al., 2019), addressing this issue has become more important in terms of managing and preserving sports talents. Although the issue of elite migration is not a new phenomenon, its dimensions have expanded over the past decades, and both its quantity and quality have changed, making it one of the most serious issues and problems for developing countries, including Iran (Taheri-Demeneh & Kazemi, 2018). In Iran, there is no favorable position for sports elites, and if the aim is to utilize sports capital, the closed circle of sports management in the country must be opened to make room for national champions, Olympians, and sports elites; therefore, in recent years, much discussion has been heard about brain drain in the scientific field, and currently, it seems that the necessity of addressing the issue of sports elite migration from the sports and physical education sector is more felt than ever (Gholipour et al., 2014). If athletes are neglected or if suitable conditions for their growth and advancement are not provided, it is not far-fetched to assume that they might move toward destinations that offer opportunities for them (Skinner & Smith, 2021). Despite all the benefits and advantages that athletes bring to society, neglect and mismanagement in the sports domain can pave the way for the migration of such capital from the country.

Studies related to sports migration have experienced significant growth over the past decade. These studies aim to provide a better understanding of the motivations and incentives of migrants for relocation, as well as the problems and challenges they face in the sports domain (Marques et al., 2021). According to the findings of Zivari et al. (2023), understanding and accepting the policies of elites, which lead to the reduction of elite migration, requires a strategic approach. This approach includes supporting the growth and development of athletes through the use of advanced technologies, supporting veteran athletes, understanding the prevailing patterns of public opinion, and adopting policies aligned with organizational goals in sports organizations. The results of the research by Shariatnejad et al. (2022) indicate that favorable working conditions and employment opportunities such as prospects for growth, advancement, and excellence, along with higher salaries, serve as antecedents for migration, which weaken the position of national sports, strengthen competing countries, lead to the decline of competitive sports on the global and international stage, and cause negative modeling among young athletes and sports novices. The findings of Moradi Sharaf et al. (2022) demonstrate that a set of factors are influential in determining athlete migration patterns. Macro-level factors include existing global intervening conditions and socioeconomic, political, and cultural contexts. Meso-level factors encompass managerial, structural, and facilitative or welfare factors. Finally, micro-level factors involve individual and psychological or personality traits of athletes themselves. Based on these results, athlete migration is a multidimensional phenomenon, and no single factor can be solely responsible. Therefore, appropriate strategies tailored to these factors at macro, meso, and micro levels should be devised to prevent or reduce this phenomenon. The study by Hosseini et al. (2020) shows that prioritizing the factors influencing athletes’ migration from national teams includes political, social, managerial, economic, cultural, and psychological factors. To prevent the outflow of human capital from the country's sports sector, each of these factors must be addressed. Bagheri et al. (2019) found that economic factors are the primary reason for athlete migration among Iranian elite athletes, with professional and social factors ranking afterward. Javadzadeh (2015) focused on social deterrent factors and showed that these were not the main causes of elite migration; economic issues held greater importance. Among social factors, the existing social and administrative structures create the most deterrence for elites. Shahabadi and Bozorgi (2014) identified the index of economic freedom and the lack of political and civil freedoms as influential in elite migration, suggesting that these factors have an inverse effect on elite migration.

Giffin et al. (2023) found that sports migration from smaller countries with limited sports opportunities can be considered a key determinant in employment-related decisions. Rojo et al. (2022) indicate that research on sports migration has mainly focused on male athletes engaged in elite sports. Given these findings and considering all academic progress in sports migration research, this field should be expanded to explore other aspects of the phenomenon. Based on the study by Bon et al. (2022), sports federations and elite clubs should implement a multidimensional approach, including dual career pathways, to facilitate cross-border mobility and career transitions for athletes. Atmaca (2020) in Turkey observed that many educated elites and students intend to leave the country due to lack of confidence in their homeland, the absence of competency-based employment standards, and concerns about insufficient governmental support for workers and researchers. Torrisi and Pernagallo (2020) in their study titled "Examining the Relationship Between Job Satisfaction and Brain Drain" found that migrant workers’ job satisfaction positively impacts their quality of life and reduces their willingness to return to Italy. The findings of Esmaelzadeh and Zaker Salehi (2015) suggest that research in this area requires methodological and theoretical organization, as there has been little serious investigation so far. Most surveys have focused on assessing the tendencies of domestic elites to migrate, with less attention paid to migrating elites, representing a notable gap in elite migration studies. Maguire (2011) found that motives and reasons for sports migration are multidimensional, requiring a broad approach that considers broader political, historical, geographical, social, and cultural trends—focusing solely on economic aspects is insufficient. Botelho and Agergaard (2011) identified economic interests, wages, cultural experiences, cosmopolitanism, ambition, and the desire to gain experience as primary reasons for athlete migration. The findings of Salimi et al. (2024) also showed that political-legal, socio-cultural, economic, professional, and personal factors are the main categories influencing the migration of elite athletes. Sain et al. (2022), through thematic narrative analysis, concluded that adaptation and well-being are the main motivations for athletes to leave their home countries. A review and synthesis of studies on the reasons for athlete migration reveal that the motives are highly diverse and multifaceted. Therefore, managing this phenomenon requires a multidimensional approach.

The necessity and importance of addressing the issue of human capital migration are so significant that when this phenomenon occurs, it can bring about numerous consequences for countries with high rates of human capital migration. These include, among others, weakening the country's international and global competitiveness, undermining elite sports, negative impacts on public sports participation, the adoption of negative role models by novice and adolescent athletes, and weakening the country's sports leagues (Shariatenejad et al., 2022). Since the topic of elite migration is a multifaceted phenomenon, approaching it requires a systemic and multi-dimensional perspective across various domains such as implementation, research, social, and cultural aspects. Given the research gap regarding the complexities and challenges related to migration phenomena (Enderle & Mashreghi, 2022), conducting qualitative, exploratory studies to uncover the various aspects and dimensions of migration in sports can lead to a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of this phenomenon. This can help in diagnosing issues more precisely and in preserving sports human resources while making optimal use of them to support national development. A thorough understanding of the dimensions of athlete migration and full awareness of the motives and reasons driving elite athletes toward migration enable sports organizations and stakeholders to better understand athletes' tendencies and expectations. This knowledge allows them to create better conditions for retaining sports talent and to protect the sports community from the cultural, social, political, and economic repercussions of this phenomenon. Beyond comprehensive research on migration and the factors influencing elite migrations, conducting in-depth qualitative studies to uncover overlooked perspectives related to the growth of elite migration in sport field can provide valuable insights for tailored strategies in both research and practice. Considering the significance of exploring the different aspects of migration possibly not identified in previous studies, this study aimed to explore the reasons for the migration of Iranian elite athletes with a deep qualitative exploratory study to uncover the possible factors in previous studies.

The flow of international migration of skilled individuals from developing countries to developed nations has experienced significant growth in recent decades (Tayebi et al., 2011). Migration has also consistently posed serious challenges for Iran, and it appears that this issue has become more prominent in recent years. Despite efforts by various agencies over the years to develop strategies to reduce and prevent this phenomenon, evidence and realities show that these strategies have not had a noticeable and tangible impact on decreasing elite migration. Managers can prevent talent migration and resource wastage by focusing on talent management processes and employing effective human resource management strategies (Hosseini et al., 2021). Limited, ad hoc programs without proper needs assessment lack the capacity to counteract and prevent migration and cannot satisfy the expectations of elites or significantly influence their migration process (Esmaelzadeh & Zaker Salehi, 2015). Undoubtedly, addressing the phenomenon of elite migration requires extensive research and significant material and spiritual investment in this critical area. Insufficient attention to this issue can lead to irreparable damages across various sectors (Esmaelzadeh & Zaker Salehi, 2015). Identifying the causes and consequences of elite athletes’ migration can greatly assist officials in understanding the challenges within this domain and devising appropriate strategies to retain human resources in the country (Salimi et al., 2024). Promoting the exit of top athletes from the national sports cycle and their migration to other countries not only results in the loss of financial investments made over years in talent identification, development, and athlete nurturing but also entrenches undesirable cultural, social, and sporting models. This can have long-term and short-term adverse political, social, and economic repercussions. Since one of the primary steps in preventing and addressing issues related to athlete migration involves understanding athletes’ main reasons and motives for leaving the country, identifying these causes through a multi-dimensional and qualitative approach can better clarify existing challenges and help formulate effective strategies to reduce elite athlete migration and mitigate related damages. Based on the above, this research aims to answer the question: “What are the main reasons behind the migration of Iranian elite athletes abroad?”.

Research Methods

The current study is an applied and qualitative study conducted in the field. To explore the reasons of the migration of Iranian elite athletes abroad, a qualitative-exploratory method utilizing a thematic analysis approach was employed. The Braun and Clarke (2006) model of thematic analysis was used for thematic analysis and identifying relevant themes related to the research. Thematic analysis provides a flexible qualitative method for pattern recognition (Braun & Clarke, 2006). It is more of a method than a technique, and unlike many other qualitative methods, it is not dependent on a specific epistemological or theoretical perspective (Braun & Clarke, 2006). This feature contributes to the flexibility of thematic analysis and grants researchers greater freedom. To conduct the research, in addition to library studies and reviewing internet sources and relevant websites, a field study involving interviews will be carried out. The statistical population of this study consists of experts and elites in the sports management field, from academic-research, executive, and sports backgrounds. The participant selection relies on the triangulation technique, which includes the following members:

- Faculty members of sports management at universities with expertise on the research topic

- Senior managers with experience in sports management at the national level and familiarity with the research topic

- Professional athletes and coaches knowledgeable about the research subject

     The criterion for the number of participants in the study was reaching theoretical saturation. Based on the purposive sampling approach, 16 individuals were purposefully selected as the sample until theoretical saturation was achieved and interviews were conducted. Before starting the interviews, confidentiality of the participants' information and details was assured, at the request of some participants. After the 14th interview, the data showed significant overlap; therefore, to ensure saturation, interviews continued until the 16th participant. In this study, after designing the interview protocol based on preliminary studies, the research problem, initial interviews, and initial literature review, in-depth interviews were used to gather primary data. Once the sample is identified, necessary arrangements were made to send the overall framework, topics, and objectives of the interview to better prepare the participants. The interview process then proceeded until reaching theoretical saturation. After data collection through interviews, thematic analysis was used to describe, analyze, and interpret the data. In the thematic analysis, Braun and Clarke’s (2006) six-phase method was followed, and this process continued until saturation is achieved. Applying Broun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis offers a systematic approach to identifying, analyzing, and reporting patterns within data. It enhances depth and rigor in exploring Iranian elite athletes' migration reasons, ensuring nuanced insights. This method fosters transparency, flexibility, and consistency, enabling researchers to interpret complex motivational themes effectively, ultimately enriching understanding of the critical factors driving athlete migration. After carefully reviewing the data and creating an initial dataset in the first phase, the second phase involves initial coding of the raw data. The main focus during this phase was to extract codes related to the primary research question (Braun & Clarke, 2006). The second phase included the extraction of initial codes from the primary data. The third phase involved searching for main themes. The fourth phase entailed revisiting and refining these themes. During the fourth phase, after multiple revisions and consulting with experts, confidence will be established in the classification and naming of main themes. Through detailed and repeated revisions, sub-themes related to each main theme identified. In this stage (elaborating on sub-themes), the main themes identified in the previous phase were again be evaluated and reanalyzed. Multiple revisions focused on classifying sub-themes under each main theme. To accomplish this, sub-themes were examined based on the semantic similarity of codes and their alignment with main themes, aiming to form clusters of sub-themes embedded within main themes. The fifth phase involved defining and naming the themes, and finally, in the sixth phase—the final step of thematic analysis and model presentation—the themes were interpreted based on the main research question (discussed in the discussion and conclusion section). Reliability and validity of the research have also been given special attention in all stages and processes of the research. Investigating reliability and validity in qualitative research has always been challenging, but Golafshani (2003) believes that reliability and validity in qualitative research depend to a large extent on the efforts and accuracy of the researchers. To assess the test-retest reliability in this study, the researcher selected three interviews and coded them twice, with a 20-day gap between each coding session. Across both coding rounds, a total of 120 codes were assigned, resulting in 47 agreements and 38 disagreements, as detailed in Table 1. Applying the relevant formula, the calculated test-retest reliability of the interviews was 78%. Since this value exceeds the 60% threshold established in previous research, the reliability of the interview coding in this study is affirmed. The outcomes of the test are provided in the table 1.

Table 1- Calculation of test-retest reliability

In an effort to increase the accuracy and ensure the validity of the analysis at different stages, the codes, main themes and sub-themes were provided to three of the interviewed experts and the necessary adjustments and changes were made according to their opinions.

Findings

A total of 16 people participated in this research to explore the reasons for the migration of Iranian elite athletes. The demographic features of the research participants have been given in table 2.

Table 2- Demographic features of the participants

Thematic analysis approach of Braun and Clarke (2006) was conducted to analyze the research data. The research findings (codes, sub-themes, and main themes) were defined and labeled as presented in the following table.

Table 3- Codes, sub-themes and main themes

Table 3 represents the research findings based on the thematic analysis of data, including four main themes and 13 sub-themes and 66 codes as the reasons for the migration of Iranian elite athletes.

   Figure1. Schematic Framework of research findings

Figure 1 represents the schematic of research findings including four main themes and 13 sub-themes as the reasons for the migration of Iranian elite athletes.

Discussion

This research was conducted to explore the reasons for the migration of Iranian elite athlete. This research can be considered as one of the limited qualitative studies that have been conducted in relation to the reasons for the migration of Iranian elite athlete. The findings revealed that the reasons for the migration of Iranian elite athlete included "Financial motivations", "Professional motivations", "Limitations", and "Supports". The extracted themes will be discussed in the following section.

Financial motivations: Financial motivations were found to be one of the key reasons for the migration of Iranian elite athletes. In line with this finding, Shariatnejad et al. (2022) found that higher salaries and wages in competing positions are among the most important consequences of human capital migration in sports. The findings of Bagheri et al. (2019) showed that economic factors are the most important reason for athletes' migration. According to findings of Hosseini et al. (2020) economic factors play role in migration of national team athletes. Javadzadeh (2015) found that economic issues are the main reason for the migration of Iranian elites. Shahabadi and Bozorgi (2014) showed that the economic freedom index affects elite migration. Maguire's (2011) findings showed that that focusing solely on economic aspects is not sufficient in examining the migration reasons. Botelho and Agergaard (2011) also identified economic benefits, wages as the main reasons for athletes' migration. Garousi (2003) identified economic as in important factor for the migration of Iranian elites and professionals. Financial incentives are crucial for athletes considering migration to other countries in pursuit of better opportunities and increased earnings. The temptation of higher salaries and lucrative contracts often serves as a significant motivation for this movement, particularly as the sports industry expands globally and the financial dynamics of various leagues and teams shift. Many athletes hail from areas where local leagues provide limited financial rewards due to lower revenue, sponsorship opportunities, and visibility. Consequently, the chance to compete in more prestigious leagues can offer substantial financial benefits. These leagues typically enjoy better funding, which translates into higher salaries, performance bonuses, and revenue-sharing arrangements that enhance earnings for elite athletes. Moreover, the growing commercialization of sports intensifies these financial drivers; endorsements and sponsorships increasingly become vital income sources. Athletes who relocate to countries with thriving sports marketing environments not only increase their salary potential but also secure endorsements from multinational firms eager to utilize their global marketability. This financial migration is further supported by the visibility and exposure gained from participating in international competitions, where strong performances can attract profitable endorsement contracts and amplifies their marketability. Additionally, some athletes are motivated by the opportunity to accumulate wealth that can benefit their families and communities, presenting a strong case for seeking opportunities abroad. Often, this migration is also spurred by the desire for improved training facilities, access to top-notch coaching, and longer career longevity, all contributing to long-term financial stability. The aspiration for a better quality of life intersects with financial goals; athletes moving to economically stable countries may seek not only personal wealth but also enhanced financial security for their families through improved living conditions. However, this athlete migration is not merely about immediate financial gain, many also contemplate future earnings post-retirement, as successful sports careers can lead to lucrative roles in coaching, commentary, or business ventures. The link between financial motivation and migration highlights the intricate connections between athletic skill, economic opportunity, and globalization. In this framework, athletes are not merely competitors in their sports; they are strategic participants navigating the complex interplay of their careers, financial ambitions, and personal growth. Thus, the convergence of sporting passion and economic opportunity reveals the compelling reasons athletes choose to migrate, illustrating the sports world as a globalized arena where financial aspirations drive significant cross-border movement.

Professional motivations: Professional motivations were found to be other significant reason for the migration of Iranian elite athletes. According to Shariatnejad et al. (2022) proper working and career conditions, expectations of opportunities for growth, advancement, and greater excellence in competing positions are among the most important consequences of human capital migration in sports. Based on findings of Bagheri et al. (2019) professional and social factors are the most important reason for athletes' migration after economic factors. According to Atmaca (2020) a large number of elites leave their country due to lack of merit-based employment standards. The findings of Botelho and Agergaard (2011) also emphasized on ambition and gaining experience as one of the main reasons for athletes' migration. Professional motivations have emerged as a significant factor behind the migration of Iranian elite athletes. These motivations are crucial in encouraging athletes to move to other countries in search of better career prospects, higher financial rewards, and superior training facilities. A primary driver of these motivations is the quest for competitive excellence, which often requires relocation to nations known for their exceptional sports infrastructure and optimal conditions for peak performance. For many athletes, moving abroad can facilitate entry into prestigious sports programs equipped with cutting-edge facilities, advanced coaching, and greater exposure to international competitions. In sports such as football, basketball, and athletics, athletes may feel prompted to leave their home countries to pursue lucrative contracts that can substantially enhance their professional prospects. Additionally, participating in high-profile leagues not only provides financial stability but also increases an athlete's visibility, offering a platform to display their talent on a global scale. As personal branding and marketability become increasingly important in professional sports, successful athletes often leverage their international experiences to enhance their appeal. Cultural exposure is another key factor in the decision to migrate; training in diverse environments fosters personal development and broadens perspectives, enabling athletes to adopt new techniques that can significantly improve their performance. Moreover, migration can be a strategic career move, prompting athletes to relocate to countries that offer better pathways for success or opportunities to compete at higher levels that may not exist in their home countries. The significance of global sporting events, such as the Olympics or World Cups, cannot be overlooked; many athletes aspire to represent their countries on such prestigious stages, and moving to nations with established training camps or coaching expertise can greatly enhance their chances of qualification. The influence of agents adds another dimension, as athletes often depend on representatives with connections to foreign leagues, motivating them to consider overseas opportunities for career advancement. Furthermore, the globalization of sports has created a more interconnected landscape, diminishing national borders as barriers for athletes pursuing success, as they recognize that the best opportunities frequently lie beyond their home countries. In summary, a combination of professional motivations drives athletes to migrate, reshaping their career paths and enabling them to chase their dreams in sports environments that better align with their ambitions for success and excellence.

Limitations: According to the findings, limitations were found to be other significant reason for the migration of Iranian elite athletes. Hosseini et al. (2020) believe that prioritizing factors affecting sports migration of national team athletes includes political, social, managerial, economic, cultural, and psychological factors, and in order to prevent the migration of the country's sports human capital, each of the aforementioned factors should be considered. Javadzadeh (2015) showed that among social factors, the existing social and administrative structure creates the most repulsion for elites. Shahabadi and Bozorgi (2014) showed that the lack of political and civil liberties affects elite migration. Maguire's (2011) findings showed that the motivations and reasons for sports migration are multifaceted and a broad approach should be taken that includes examining broader political, historical, geographical, social and cultural trends in society and that focusing solely on economic aspects is not sufficient. The findings of Botelho and Agergaard (2011) also emphasized on cultural experience and cosmopolitanism as the main reasons for athletes' migration. Garousi (2003) has stated that social, educational and cultural-religious factors as the reasons for the migration of Iranian elites and professionals. Athletes frequently encounter numerous constraints in their home countries, which can greatly impact their choice to move abroad in search of improved opportunities, training facilities, and competitive settings. A major challenge is the lack of funding and support from national sports governing bodies, which limits their access to quality coaching, equipment, and professional growth. In nations where sports funding is scant or mismanaged, athletes may find it difficult to realize their full potential, leading to disappointment and the realization that they might need to explore opportunities elsewhere to compete at higher levels. Additionally, some countries may lack the necessary infrastructure for effective training, such as modern stadiums and training facilities, encouraging talented individuals to seek nations with better sports infrastructures. Athletes are often attracted to countries with established leagues and a dynamic sports culture that offers a chance to develop their skills at a world-class level. Moreover, athletes from developing countries may face obstacles in competing internationally due to political unrest or restrictive immigration policies, making migration a viable option for gaining consistent exposure and experience. Socio-economic factors also play a critical role; those from low-income backgrounds may struggle to balance training with life’s demands, such as job responsibilities and family duties. Moving to wealthier countries can provide them with better opportunities and the stability necessary to concentrate on their athletic endeavors. Cultural factors should also be considered; the appeal of living in environments that foster sporting communities and value athletic achievements can be very attractive. Athletes may believe that relocating will not only enhance their performance but also provide a sense of belonging and recognition that they may not experience in their home countries. Furthermore, the desire for a secure future in sports can lead some athletes to pursue citizenship or residency in countries with strong pathways to professional careers, motivated by their aspirations for stability and success. The globalized nature of sports, marked by the rise of international leagues and competitions, means that talent showcases often occur beyond national borders. In an environment where competition for limited professional team positions is intense, athletes are increasingly driven to go where their abilities will be recognized and cultivated. Ultimately, the combination of limited resources, socio-economic difficulties, and the search for better training and competitive opportunities can propel athletes to migrate, seeking a trajectory that aligns more closely with their ambitions and potential, emphasizing the intricate relationship between challenges and the pursuit of sporting excellence on a global scale.

Supports: Supports were found to be the final significant reason for the migration of Iranian elite athletes. Consistent to this part of findings, Zivari et al. (2023) also emphasized that supporting the growth and development of athletes by utilizing advanced technologies, supporting veterans, recognizing the patterns that govern public opinion in society, and adopting policies in line with organizational goals in sports organizations will reduce elite migration. Atmaca (2020) showed in Turkey that a large number of elites are inclined to leave the country due to lack of trust in their country, lack of merit-based employment standards, and concerns about the lack of government support. In athletics, support encompasses various forms of assistance such as financial aid, access to training facilities, coaching, sponsorship arrangements, and programs, all of which can greatly impact an athlete's choice to relocate for their sports careers. These supports can cultivate an atmosphere that encourages athletes to pursue opportunities overseas, particularly in countries that provide better resources, superior training environments, and more attractive financial rewards. For example, athletes from developing nations might seek to move to countries with advanced sports programs, comprehensive health care, and strong sports infrastructures that can improve their performance and extend their careers. The existence of robust athletic federations and professional leagues can make certain countries appealing for athletes looking to enhance their competitive standing. Financial aid is particularly essential, as many athletes in poorer areas may not have the financial means to adequately support their sporting ambitions. Consequently, attractive sponsorship offers from international brands and organizations can entice these athletes to go abroad, granting them the financial resources necessary for elite training and competition. Furthermore, globalization has seen agents and sports management firms actively searching for talented individuals from various backgrounds to promote on the global stage. This migration often aligns with a pursuit for better educational prospects, as many athletes look to balance their athletic goals with university studies abroad, where scholarships for talented athletes may be available. Access to higher education is frequently seen as a stable avenue, and the opportunity to earn a degree while competing in sports further bolsters the case for migration. The prospect of participating in prestigious international competitions and leagues, where significant achievements like championship titles and Olympic qualifications can be attained, attracts athletes to countries that prioritize sports in their policies. Beyond career growth, the promise of diverse cultural experiences and improved living conditions can also encourage athletes to migrate. By moving, they aim to enhance their performance opportunities while simultaneously experiencing personal and social growth through immersion in different cultures and establishing international networks within the sports community. Additionally, many countries have created visa programs specifically designed to attract skilled athletes, simplifying the migration process. These policies incentivize talented individuals to relocate by acknowledging their potential contributions to the host nation's athletic reputation and development. Furthermore, the visibility and backing from local fans and communities in these countries often foster an environment that enhances athletic success; further motivate athletes to chase their aspirations abroad. In conclusion, the various forms of support-whether social, media-related, governmental, or medical- collectively motivate athletes to consider migration as a viable path to maximize their potential, broaden their perspectives, and cultivate successful careers in the global sports landscape. The interplay of these elements ultimately shapes the trajectory of an athlete’s career, turning the pursuit of athletic excellence into a journey that goes beyond national boundaries.

Conclusion

Analyzing why Iranian elite athletes choose to migrate can help policymakers comprehend the factors that drive talent away from the country. This understanding can inform the creation of sports policies designed to keep talent in Iran through initiatives like enhanced training facilities, increased funding, and robust support systems. The findings from the study can enable the development of tailored support programs that target critical issues such as financial aid, career counseling, and health resources. These initiatives could aid in retaining elite athletes, ultimately improving the performance of national teams. Additionally, the research can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the various elements that influence elite athletes' choices, which may be beneficial for sports organizations encountering similar migration patterns, offering a framework for enhancing athlete retention. The study might also shed light on specific areas warranting further investigation, including the psychological effects of migration on athletes' careers and personal lives, the influence of national identity in sports, or comparisons between athletes from diverse cultural backgrounds. Long-term as well as deep qualitative studies into athlete migration dimensions could provide more nuanced insights into the shifting landscape of sports in Iran and influence future retention strategies.

Research limitations and implications

This study offers important insights into why Iranian elite athletes choose to migrate. However, there are some limitations to keep in mind. First, the small number of participants (only 16) means that while the research provides in-depth understanding, its findings might not fully apply to all athletes, managers, or faculty members in the broader population. The way participants were selected intentionally for their specific experiences is useful for detailed exploration but could introduce bias, as their views might not represent everyone's perspectives. Relying on participants’ self-reported answers during semi-structured interviews also has its challenges, since responses can be influenced by a desire to present oneself favorably or by memory lapses, which might affect how accurate or complete the information is. Additionally, because the study was conducted at a single point in time, it doesn’t show how athletes’ motivations to migrate might change over time or in different political or social situations. Cultural and regional factors specific to Iran may also limit how well these findings can be applied to other countries or contexts. Lastly, the way the data was analyzed through thematic analysis is interpretative, meaning different researchers might see different themes or patterns, which could influence consistency and reproducibility. Looking ahead, future research with larger and more diverse groups, as well as studies that follow participants over time, could provide a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of this complex issue. Moreover, applying other qualitative methods including “reflective thematic analysis”, “grounded theory” and etc. may help to explore different hidden aspects of athlete migrations. Studying each of the main themes and sub-themes identified in this research could be the subject of future research in this field.

Acknowledgments

We are sincerely grateful of all experts and athletes participated in the process of conducting his study.

Conflicts of Interest

There is no potential conflict of interest.

Funding

The current study received no financial support from any organization or institution.