Massive international sports support awaits Iraq in the future

FIFA President Gianni Infantino plans to visit the Iraqi capital Baghdad soon. This follows a meeting he had today, Thursday, with Iraqi Football Association President Younis Mahmoud at FIFA's headquarters in Switzerland.

Mahmoud's visit to Switzerland comes to participate in FIFA meetings, marking the first time Iraq has been represented in these meetings since he was elected president of the Iraqi Federation on May 23.

According to an official statement from the Iraq Football Association, Mahmoud discussed with Infantino in the presence of his advisor Ghaith Mahna, the FIFA Secretary General, the Director of National Associations, and a representative from the Middle East office, the prospects for developing Iraqi football and outlining a roadmap for the next phase.

The meeting included an official congratulation to the new executive committee of the Iraq Football Association, along with the exchange of commemorative gifts in front of a platform featuring the flags of Iraq and FIFA.

During the meeting, FIFA's president was presented with a comprehensive file outlining a vision for developing football infrastructure in Iraq.

Infantino has confirmed his support for the project to establish a sports center in Baghdad dedicated to serving youth categories and developing the game's environment, alongside studying the creation of a main training stadium with world-class specifications.

The two parties discussed the possibility of supporting the establishment of a new headquarters for the Iraq Football Association, additional training pitches, a sports medicine center, and accommodation for players, noting that the implementation of these projects is linked to providing a suitable piece of land and obtaining the necessary government support.

FIFA President announced during the meeting the decision to create youth-specific stadiums in Baghdad as part of support programs for children and schools, to be completed within 60 days of providing the designated land.

The discussion also included the establishment of mini training pitches with artificial grass within the same timeframe after identifying suitable locations.

The opening of these projects will be attended by the FIFA president and the Iraqi prime minister, reflecting the significance of these projects and their role in developing the football infrastructure.

Gianni Infantino stated during the meeting: "I have no doubt that Iraqi football is heading in the right direction. I was pleased with the constructive discussions about a roadmap that promises a bright future for boys and girls. FIFA is always ready to support you, and I am determined to visit Baghdad soon to support Iraqi football and infrastructure projects."

The meeting discussed the importance of showcasing Iraq's new image and enhancing its openness on the international football stage, as well as exploring support for Iraq's hosting of regional tournaments, qualifying matches, and international events.

The two sides also discussed involving Iraqi staff in training, administrative, and medical courses organized by FIFA, and providing them with opportunities for internships at the headquarters of the international federation to enhance their expertise.

Mahmoud concluded the visit by expressing his gratitude to the FIFA president for his ongoing support of Iraqi football and his practical initiatives, before taking a tour of the FIFA Museum as part of the visit program.

It is noted that Infantino previously visited Iraq in 2023 to attend the opening ceremony of the "Gulf 25" tournament in Basra, at the invitation of the Iraqi federation at that time.