Stuffed toys thrown onto the pitch by Zakho SC fans before their May 13 match against Al-Hudood, later donated to children with illnesses. (Photo: Zakho SC)
US consulate in Erbil congratulates Zakho fans on FIFA Fan Award
ERBIL — The U.S. Consulate General in Erbil congratulated supporters of Zakho Sports Club after they won the FIFA Fan Award 2025.
In a statement posted online, the consulate said, “The U.S. Consulate General Erbil congratulates the fans of Zakho SC on winning the FIFA Fan Award 2025!”
The consulate also highlighted the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, describing it as “the organization’s largest event to date, featuring 48 national teams.” It said the United States will host matches in 11 cities, with 78 games scheduled, including the final at New York New Jersey Stadium.
Supporters of the Kurdistan Region-based club won the FIFA award after a global vote recognizing a humanitarian gesture that gained international attention. FIFA announced Tuesday that “Fans of Zakho SC have won the FIFA Fan Award 2025,” honoring the supporters for donating toys to children suffering from illnesses during a match in the Iraqi Stars League.
The gesture took place May 13 before a match against Al-Hudood, when thousands of Zakho fans threw toys onto the pitch as part of a coordinated campaign to donate them to sick children. The moment was widely shared on social media.