Infantino reaffirms his trust in Younes Mahmoud in Tokyo

In a move that enhances sports diplomacy and solidifies the continental and international standing of Iraqi football, a delegation from the Iraqi Football Association, headed by Captain Younis Mahmoud and Secretary General Kovend Abdul Khaleq Masoud, conducted a series of high-level meetings and discussions on the sidelines of the Asian Football Confederation's General Assembly meetings and conferences held in the Japanese capital, Tokyo.

Iraqi Football Association President Younis Mahmoud confirmed in official statements that FIFA President Gianni Infantino has renewed his full and unconditional support for the Iraqi federation and its current management, praising the steps taken to develop the game and the infrastructure projects in the country.

The official statement from the Iraqi Football Association reported that the discussions in Tokyo included fruitful bilateral meetings between Younis Mahmoud and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, AFC President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, as well as Australian Football Federation President Ante Išak, during which they explored avenues for cooperation and the exchange of expertise.

Younis Mahmoud clarified the goals of these initiatives, stating: "These participations and intensive meetings are part of our ongoing efforts to open broader horizons for partnerships with national federations and international football institutions, positively reflecting on the present and future of the green rectangle in Iraq and meeting the aspirations of our wide fan base."

Reports indicate that the upcoming international four-nation tournament in Basra next month has been a significant topic of discussion, with an agreement reached with representatives of the Iranian Football Federation regarding the attendance of their full-strength national team. Additionally, prior coordination has taken place with the President of the Palestinian Football Association, Jibril Rajoub, concerning logistical details and confirming the participation of the national team.

Sources indicate that this meeting with the FIFA president follows a previous meeting held between the two parties at the headquarters of the international federation in Switzerland, which laid the foundations for plans to develop Iraqi facilities and stadiums.

These administrative and political moves and gains in Tokyo confirm the success of Iraqi football leadership in rallying continental and international support, paving the way for the success of upcoming challenges, most notably hosting the Basra Quadruple Summit with strong and distinguished participation.