Iraq plans Arab Cup hosting bid after sports infrastructure developments

BAGHDAD, December 5 — Iraq is planning a bid to host the FIFA Arab Cup after what officials say are significant developments in sports infrastructure in recent years.

Minister of Youth and Sports Ahmed Al-Mubarak said in an interview with Al-Araby Al-Jadeed that Baghdad’s ambitions include qualifying for the 2026 World Cup hosted by Canda, the United States, and Mexico.

It would be the second time in history that the national team would play in the competition.

Al-Mubarak emphasized, “There is a significant goal to host more international sports events and tournaments in the coming years,” citing the success of the Gulf Cup as a driving force for officials in Iraqi sports and football to consider hosting another major tournament.

“There have been many sports facilities completed recently that qualify for hosting major sporting events,” he added.