Iraq Submits Bid to Host Asian 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
-
A Khan
- . June 9, 2025
- . Update: June 9, 2025 10:03 pm
Iraq’s application to stage one of the Asian qualifying groups for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a bold step in the pursuit of reestablishing Iraq’s place on the world football stage. The Iraqi Football Association (IFA) has lodged an outright proposal to the AFC regarding their intention to welcome a group tournament involving multiple national teams, throughout the next year‘s qualifying period, as a demonstration of their capabilities to host a group tournament. If the IFA wins the hosting rights, the impact on infrastructure for Iraqi football and national pride would be immeasurable. Both stadiums in Baghdad and Erbil are poised to be improved to meet FIFA and AFC standards. Upgrades include a commitment to improve seating capacities, better locker rooms, and total upgrades and improvements to broadcast facilities.
It would be appropriate to say that the IFA’s proposal comes at the right time, given that Iraq is currently in the middle of the table in Group B. To illustrate and with possible qualification still intact, hosting this group tournament could offer a precious home advantage. If anything, the IFA is hoping that ordinary people living in Erbil and Baghdad would see the games live in the stadium rather than on their televisions; inspiring local fans and national support. This proposal appears to be part of a much larger vision of rebuilding Iraq’s reputation in the world football/external sports community. In addition to building an international presence, hosting the group qualifiers would allow for multi-faceted, economic opportunities surrounding tourism, hospitality, and development jobs in a pre-or post-COVID hosting capacity.
