Football returns to the cradle of civilization

CONGRATULATIONS ON IRAQ WINNING THE ARABIAN GULF CUP! WAS THIS A RESULT YOU HAD EXPECTED ALL ALONG?

The challenges that Iraq faced in the past resulted in limited participation and organization of championships, which had an impact on the team’s performance. However, recent improvements led to unexpected opportunities, such as increased crowd attendance and support, which helped to motivate the team and contribute to their successful performance. Despite the previous limitations, the team was able to overcome them and achieve impressive results in current competitions.

HOW CHALLENGING WAS IT TO ORGANIZE THIS TOURNAMENT? DID YOU FACE MANY OBSTACLES?

Holding this event in Basra presented numerous challenges due to the lack of necessary infrastructure and resources. However, we were able to overcome these obstacles by partnering with companies that had the expertise and equipment required for the event. While it was a challenging process, our collaboration and strategic approach allowed us to successfully manage the event and ensure its overall success.

WHY WAS AL BASRA CHOSEN AS THE

HOST CITY FOR THE TOURNAMENT?

ADVANTAGES DOES IT OFFER TO THE FOOTBALL AUDIENCE?

What

We wanted to showcase the diversity and range of cities across Iraq. While Baghdad has hosted championships in the past, we believe it’s important for the world to be introduced to its other cities. With Iraq’s vast size and unique offerings in both the north and south, we’re currently exploring the possibility of hosting upcoming championships in southern cities. By showcasing a variety of Iraqi cities, we hope to provide an authentic representation of all that Iraq has to offer to the world.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE FEEDBACK RECEIVED

FROM THE TOURNAMENT’S VISITORS?

Basra’s hospitality and welcoming nature have been widely recognized by visitors, even beyond the sports events. From commercial locations to public spaces, the people of Basra went out of their way to extend a warm welcome to both teams and visitors. This level of hospitality was exceptional and truly stood out compared to previous championships hosted in other cities. The many welcome signs placed throughout the city were a testament to the locals’ genuine desire to make visitors feel at home.

Anyone driving around Basra during the event could easily see the overwhelming number of welcome signs on display, which created a visually impressive atmosphere.

HOW PASSIONATE ARE IRAQIS ABOUT FOOTBALL? IS ATTENDANCE AT MATCHES HIGH ENOUGH IN YOUR OPINION?

The passion and enthusiasm of the Iraqi people for the championship were evident from day one. The event was a total sellout, with as many people outside the stadium as there were inside, creating a signifcant challenge when it came to managing it. Even matches that did not involve the Iraqi team were sold out, demonstrating the strong desire of the Iraqi people for such events. With 40 years since the last championship held in Iraq, the passion and excitement surrounding this event were palpable. The Final was held in a stadium with a capacity of 65,000, but there were 250,000 people outside the stadium, four times more than the number of spectators inside. Despite knowing there wouldn’t be enough seating, the audience was still eager to be there and witness the event. The overwhelming attendance and interest from the Iraqi people highlight their deep love and passion for sports and their country.

ARE THERE ANY OTHER UNIQUE EXPERIENCES THAT THE IFA IS WORKING ON OFFERING TO THE FOOTBALL CROWD?

Yes, there are many agreements currently in the works that will be announced soon, and some of these could be the frst of their kind in the Middle East. Unfortunately, we are unable to share any specifc details at this time. However, we anticipate making an announcement in the coming weeks that will mark a signifcant moment in the history of Iraqi football. This announcement will be a milestone that will have a profound impact on the sport in the region, and we are eager to share more information with everyone as soon as possible.

GOING FORWARD, WHAT DO YOU EXPECT NEXT FOR IRAQ’S FOOTBALL SCENE?

The new generation of Iraqi footballers will have the opportunity to gain valuable international exposure, which is something that previous generations did not have. As a result, we anticipate reaping the rewards of this exposure in the next few years. It will allow Iraqi footballers to showcase their skills on the global stage and compete with some of the best teams in the world, which will improve their skills and techniques and apply what they have learned to elevate their game in domestic competitions. Overall, we are excited about the future of Iraqi football.