Baghdad: The President of the Iraqi Football Association, Younis Mahmoud, emphasized the importance of establishing a work program aimed at enhancing the various aspects related to referees and their assistants. During a meeting held at the headquarters of the Iraqi Stars League, Mahmoud engaged with the head of the referees committee, Hazem Hussein, and committee members, along with executive office members Imad Yassin, Abdul Razzaq Shalah, and Dr. Sabah Qassim, who supervises the referees committee.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Mahmoud highlighted refereeing as a critical component for the development of the national team and a key factor in the success of matches. He underscored the federation's commitment to elevating the standards of refereeing teams to ensure safe and successful matches. As the new 2026/2027 season approaches, Mahmoud urged all involved to collaborate as a unified team, ensuring refereeing receives its due attention in every aspect.

Mahmoud further stressed the necessity of creating a structured work program to improve the various facets related to referees and their assistants. This initiative includes the training and qualification of a new generation of referees, integrating them into the next season's competitions. The goal is to identify and nurture refereeing talents, enhancing their capabilities to the highest standards.