Younis Mahmoud Elected President of Iraqi Football Federation

Younis Mahmoud has been elected to lead the Iraqi Football Association following voting by the organization's General Assembly. The Iraqi News Agency reported that Mahmoud garnered 38 votes in the election, substantially ahead of his closest rival Adnan Darjal, who received 20 votes. A third candidate, Iyad Bunyan, secured just one vote. Two ballots were invalidated during the official vote count.

Mahmoud's election comes at a pivotal juncture for Iraqi football. The national team, known as the Mesopotamian Lions, recently achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup—the country's first appearance in the tournament in four decades. Iraq's previous World Cup participation occurred in 1986, when Mexico hosted the competition.

The qualification was secured through a 2-1 victory over Bolivia in the global playoff final, cementing Iraq's spot at the tournament. The finals will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico next year.

Iraq has been drawn into Group Nine alongside France, Senegal, and Norway for the World Cup competition. Mahmoud's leadership will guide the federation through preparations and participation in the tournament.