Mosul FC eyes stadium upgrades ahead of return to top tier

NINEVEH — Mosul’s local government has begun work to upgrade the University of Mosul Stadium ahead of the city’s return to Iraq’s top-flight soccer, Governor Abdul Qader al-Dakhil said Sunday.

The stadium will serve as the official home ground for Mosul Football Club during the first phase of the Iraq Stars League, following the team’s promotion earlier this month. Mosul secured a return to top-tier competition for the first time in 15 years after winning the Premier League — Iraq’s second division — with a 4-1 victory over Masafi Janoub.

Al-Dakhil told the Iraqi News Agency that the stadium upgrades include turf replacement, expanded seating, and improved facilities, all being carried out on an accelerated timeline to ensure readiness before the league begins.

He also addressed the stalled Mosul Olympic Stadium project, which falls under the Ministry of Youth and Sports. “We hope the project will be seriously followed up and that the necessary funding will be provided,” he said, stressing the need for financial backing to open the venue.

Looking ahead to the club’s debut season in the Stars League, al-Dakhil outlined a support plan that includes a dedicated budget and new player signings. “We are not aiming for mere participation, but for real competition,” he said.

He acknowledged the strength of the league, naming teams such as Al-Zawra, Al-Shorta, Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya, Al-Talaba, and clubs from the Kurdistan Region, including Erbil, Zakho, Duhok, and Newroz. “We have the determination and will not settle for anything less than being among the top teams,” he added.