KRG provides $321,000 lifeline to Newroz SC with club in dire financial straits

SULAYMANIYAH — The Kurdistan Regional Government has allocated 450 million Iraqi dinars ($321,000) in emergency funding to Newroz Sports Club, the only Sulaymaniyah-based team competing in Iraq’s top football division, after months of severe financial strain.

Peshawa Hawramani, spokesperson for the Kurdistan Regional Government, told 964media, “The Prime Minister’s Office is providing 450 million dinars in assistance to Newroz Club.”

The support follows a prolonged financial crisis triggered by the August arrest of the club’s chair, Lahur Sheikh Jangi, who also heads the People’s Front party. Since his detention, Newroz has struggled to pay salaries and maintain operations. Players have gone two months without wages, while administrative staff are five months behind.

In recent weeks, the club’s management launched public appeals for help, warning that it might withdraw from the Iraqi Stars League without immediate support. Local celebrities and artists led a fundraising campaign that drew donations from fans across Sulaymaniyah, Erbil, Duhok, and abroad.

In a statement, the KRG’s Media and Information Department said, “After Newroz Sports Club faced financial difficulties in recent months, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, through his office, has granted 450 million dinars to the club.”

The statement added that Barzani’s decision “reflects his support for sports and athletes in the Kurdistan Region, helping them represent the region at a higher level.”

Newroz is one of four Kurdistan Region teams competing in Iraq’s top league, alongside Duhok, Erbil, and Zakho. The club finished ninth last season with 53 points.