Kurdish Leaders Congratulate Iraq on Historic 2026 World Cup Qualification After 40-Year Absence

Peregraf — Iraq has qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending a 40-year absence following a 2–1 victory over Bolivia in Mexico on Tuesday. The result triggered celebrations across the country, with leaders describing the achievement as a rare moment of national unity.

The victory comes amid the ongoing US-Israel War on Iran, which is now in its 33rd day. The conflict began on February 28, 2026, and has significantly impacted regional stability.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani, who also serves as the acting Minister of Defense, declared Wednesday and Thursday public holidays. He cited the significance of the achievement for a nation long shaped by conflict and political strain.

In the Kurdistan Region, senior officials joined the national response. President of the Kurdistan Region Nechirvan Barzani called the qualification "a source of pride for all Iraqis," noting that it followed decades of waiting for a return to football’s premier stage. He stated the team turned "the dream of qualifying for the World Cup into a reality" and expressed hope that the win would foster "further harmony and joy."

Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani emphasized the players’ resilience. He stated that the team succeeded, despite "difficult circumstances filled with anxiety and tension," in bringing "joy to the hearts of Iraqis." He wished the squad—often referred to as the "Lions of Mesopotamia"—success in the upcoming tournament.

Iraq has been drawn into Group I of the 2026 World Cup alongside France, Norway, and Senegal. This marks the country's first appearance in the finals since 1986.

For many Iraqis, the qualification carries symbolic weight beyond sport. It revives memories of the national team’s only previous World Cup appearance and offers a shared celebration in a context where such moments are frequently hindered by regional instability.