Iraq to host 25th Gulf Cup in 2021

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region — Iraq will host the 25th Gulf Cup in 2021, the Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation (AGCFF) announced on Tuesday, with the tournament to be held in the southern port city of Basra.

It has been more than 40 years since Iraq last hosted the tournament. 

AGCFF Secretary-General Jassem Al-Rumaihi “affirmed his great confidence that the Iraqi Federation will be preparing at an increasing pace to prepare for the Gulf cup to be held in the dear region of Basra,” the AFCFF tweeted early Tuesday morning.

“The first stage of work to earn the organization of the tournament ended successfully today...the next page is the most important,” Iraq’s Minister of Sports and Youth Adnan Darjal said on Facebook, saying the country will work hard to create “the best atmosphere” for the tournament.

Iraq last hosted the Gulf Cup in 1979, where they emerged as victors in a round-robin tournament. Iraq’s two other victories were in 1984 and 1988.

The federation’s decision to declare Iraq as host brings hope to the nation, especially football fans, who have not seen big results from the Iraqi national team in quite some time.

“Gulf 25 in our Basra is a sign of Iraq's recovery and its response to its natural role among brothers and friends,” Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi tweeted late on Monday, before the public announcement.

“The land of Mesopotamia is moving steadily towards stability and openness to everyone. Our land is a source of love, tolerance and openness to all. The government will provide all forms of support to ensure the success of the meeting of athlete brothers from Gulf in their homeland, Iraq,” he added.