This study aims to develop a conceptual framework for the code of professional ethics in traditional sports, focusing on Zurkhaneh sports and Pahlavani wrestling, through a qualitative approach and thematic analysis. The population consisted of academic experts, sports managers and officials, religious scholars, Zurkhaneh veterans, and coaches. Sampling was conducted purposefully and through snowball sampling, achieving thematic saturation with 17 semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed based on Braun and Clarke’s (2006) six-stage thematic analysis. Validity was assessed using criteria of credibility, transferability, confirmability, and dependability, with an inter-coder agreement of 84%, indicating high reliability. The findings included 210 initial codes, categorized into 35 sub-themes and ultimately four main domains: "spirituality-centered philosophy," "cultural and national identity," "professional ethics," and "social responsibility." The spirituality-centered domain emphasized self-purification, worship in sports, trust in God, humility, and the sanctity of the Zurkhaneh environment. Cultural and national identity encompassed cultural heritage, traditional language, ritual music, the architecture of the Zurkhaneh pit, and national symbols. Professional ethics highlighted principles such as honesty in competition, justice, responsibility, humility after victory, adherence to rules, and group cohesion. Social responsibility focused on being a role model in society, social participation, the educational role of coaches, promoting values through media, and countering ethical deviations. This framework, while preserving the cultural and spiritual essence of Zurkhaneh sports, addresses contemporary challenges and can guide policymaking and the development of ethical behavior. The study’s innovation lies in its culturally grounded approach, which also holds potential for global applicability.