Younis Mahmoud was elected president of the Iraqi Football Association during an election conference held in Baghdad on Saturday [1], [2].
Mahmoud's victory marks a significant transition in the leadership of Iraqi football, placing one of the nation's most celebrated sporting icons at the helm of its governing body. His appointment comes at a time when the federation seeks to stabilize its administration and improve the performance of the national team on the international stage.
The election results showed a decisive margin between the two primary candidates. Mahmoud secured 38 votes [1], [2], while his opponent, Adnan Dirjal, received 20 votes [1], [2]. The voting process took place in the capital city, where delegates from various footballing interests gathered to determine the future direction of the sport in the country.
Despite the competitive nature of the race, Mahmoud sought to maintain a professional relationship with his rival. In a statement regarding the contest, Mahmoud said his disagreement with Dirjal was professional and not personal [3].
This commitment to unity was evident prior to the final tally. Mahmoud said he was prepared to support Dirjal if Dirjal had won the presidency [3]. The transition of power follows a period of intense scrutiny regarding the management of the Iraqi game—a sport that carries immense cultural weight across the country.
As the new president, Mahmoud inherits a federation tasked with developing youth academies, and improving infrastructure. The focus now shifts to how his experience as a player will translate into administrative success and whether he can implement the structural reforms necessary to elevate Iraq's standing in Asian football.
“Younis Mahmoud was elected president of the Iraqi Football Association”
The election of Younis Mahmoud represents a shift toward leadership by a figure with deep symbolic capital and direct experience in the sport's highest levels. By defeating Adnan Dirjal, Mahmoud has secured a mandate to reshape the Iraqi Football Association, but the relatively narrow margin of victory suggests he will need to build a broad coalition of support within the football community to enact lasting institutional changes.
