Ataei was named as head coach of Iran volleyball team in August 2021 as Vladimir Alekno’s replacement.
Team Melli, under Ataei’s leadership, faced defeats against Germany, Ukraine, and the Czech Republic, managing to secure a win only against Qatar in Pool A.
Alireza Toloukian, Ataei’s assistant, will step in as the interim coach.
Iran won the gold medal in both the 2021 Asian Championship and the 2022 Asian Games, and silver in Asian Championship 2023 under Ataei’s guidance.