Iraq offers free tickets in Jeddah ahead of World Cup qualifier against Saudi Arabia

BAGHDAD — The Iraqi Football Association, in coordination with Iraq’s consulate in Jeddah, announced the distribution of free tickets for supporters of the national team ahead of its upcoming match against Saudi Arabia.

According to a statement, the tickets will be distributed in the Al-Rawdah neighborhood of Jeddah.

Iraq is preparing for a decisive showdown against Saudi Arabia on Tuesday after edging Indonesia 1–0 in the Asian playoff qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, keeping alive hopes of returning to the tournament for the first time since 1986.

Distribution times are scheduled for Monday, Oct. 13, from 10 a.m. to midnight, and Tuesday, Oct. 14, from 8 a.m. to noon.

Ticket pickup will be limited to one individual per group of five, with that person required to present the email confirmation for the reservation.

Applicants must provide five paper copies of passports and visas for the five individuals represented. The person collecting the tickets bears full responsibility for the entry of those whose tickets they receive.

The tickets are fully free of charge, provided by the Iraqi Football Association in cooperation with the Iraqi consulate in Jeddah. The initiative is intended to support the national team and facilitate the attendance of Iraqi fans.

Iraq now must defeat Saudi Arabia to secure a direct place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The runner-up will face the second-place team from Group A in a two-legged playoff in November, with the winner advancing to an inter-confederation playoff in March 2026 for a final World Cup berth.