The Iraqi Super Cup Championship is Threatened with Cancellation!

The Iraqi Super Cup Championship is threatened with cancellation or indefinite postponement, as negative indicators regarding the participation of clubs have escalated, amid potential withdrawals from more than one party, in addition to the logistical challenges facing the organizing committee in preparing the stadiums and timings.

The Iraqi Football Association had previously announced the organization of the championship this year in a new format, differing from the traditional version held through a single final match between the league champion and the cup champion. It was scheduled for this season's version to be held in two groups, competing several clubs in a first phase, with two teams qualifying for the final match.

However, multiple sources indicated that Al-Shorta Club has informed the organizers of its intention to withdraw, citing time constraints, as the championship coincides with the team's preparations for the new season, alongside other commitments related to the team's technical program.

According to the same sources, Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya Club is also seriously considering withdrawing from the championship, which would be a significant blow, given the popularity and competitiveness of both teams, and the impact of their absence on the championship level and fan interest.

In light of the developments, the federation proposed the idea of including Al-Karama and Al-Naft clubs as substitutes in case the withdrawal of Al-Shorta and Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya is confirmed, but this plan also faces real difficulties.

Al-Naft Club has not clarified its position, amid discussions about the possibility of not participating, while it is likely that Al-Karama Club refuses to participate due to its commitment to an external training camp in Tunisia lasting 17 days, starting at the end of this week.

Additionally, the stadiums designated to host the championship have not yet been prepared as required, which deepens the complications of the organizational situation and makes time tight for holding the championship at its scheduled time.

Considering these factors, the chances of holding the Iraqi Super Cup Championship appear very weak, unless drastic changes or quick solutions are made to save the new version.

It is worth noting that the last edition of the Super Cup was held in the 2021-2022 season, where Al-Shorta Club was crowned champion after defeating Al-Karkh. Meanwhile, Al-Zawraa Club is the most successful in the championship, having won it on five occasions, enhancing its historical status in the record of Iraqi football.