Basra Stadium to Host Iranian Clubs in Asian Elite Competitions

Basra International Stadium is gearing up to host matches for Iranian clubs in the 2026-2027 AFC Champions League, following the Asian Football Confederation's decision to relocate home games for these clubs outside of Iran due to security concerns in the region.

According to informed sources, Esteghlal Tehran has submitted an official request to the Iraqi Ministry of Youth and Sports to recognize Basra International Stadium as the venue for hosting their continental matches.

The Iranian club had previously submitted a request to host its matches in Tajikistan, but the Asian Football Confederation rejected it due to the lack of necessary accreditation for the stadiums.

Esteghlal's request is not the only one. Tractor Club has made the same demand, and it also includes Iran's third representative in the tournament, Gol Gohar. As a result, the Southern Stadium is expected to witness a high density of matches during the new season.

Sources have revealed that Al Quwa Al Jawiya is also considering hosting their matches in the elite AFC Champions League at Basra International Stadium.

This approach will increase the pressure on the pitch and its facilities, necessitating full readiness before the start of the continental challenges.

Sources indicate that Basra Sports City is currently facing some administrative challenges. Since the beginning of May, most companies operating in the city have halted their activities, meaning that the stadium requires urgent maintenance and rehabilitation.

The development project in Basra is anticipated to receive support from the local government, particularly given the current vacancy in the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

Basra International Stadium is the largest in Iraq, with a capacity of around 65,000 spectators, and was officially opened in 2013 as part of the sports city in the south of the country.

Basra Stadium has previously hosted the Gulf Cup 25 and several official matches for the Iraqi national team. It witnessed a large turnout of fans on various occasions, thanks to the immense passion of the Basra supporters.