Baghdad, The Minister of Youth and Sports, Ahmed Al-Mubarqa, discussed with the President of the International Football Association, Gianni Infantino, on the sidelines of his attendance at the opening of the 25th Gulf Championship in Basra, the issue of Iraq’s hosting of international tournaments, as it possesses all the necessary ingredients for that.
The minister assured the FIFA President, according to the statement of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, that “Iraq possesses sports infrastructure that is the best in the region, including stadiums according to international specifications, in addition to administrative staff who have become experienced in managing tournaments, in addition to the possibility of using international expertise in this aspect, which encourages Iraq in the near future to organize international tournaments at a high level, including the Asian Nations Finals.
For his part, Infantino affirmed, “What we touched during the opening ceremony and the impressive public attendance confirms this country’s love for football, as it is a life-loving audience and deserves the best,” adding that football is a source of happiness and gives hope to many people, and that the fullness of the stadium and the wonderful atmosphere in Basra is the best proof on it.”
Infantino indicated, “This tournament will be the gateway to hosting future tournaments on FIFA’s agenda, offering his congratulations to the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Iraqi Football Association for the distinguished organizational efforts, to show the tournament in the best way.”
Source: National Iraqi News Agency