Captain Salahadin Siamand, Chief of the Kurdistan Football Association, has laid out an ambitious plan to elevate the Kurdistan football league to the level of major international leagues. Speaking with Kurdish Globe, he emphasized that achieving this goal will require continuous effort, sufficient funding, and strong cooperation across all sectors.
“Our aim for the upcoming season is to make the Kurdistan football league strong and recognized internationally,” Captain Siamand said. “We have comprehensive programs ready, but success depends on avoiding crises and receiving timely support from the Kurdistan Regional Government. We need the capabilities of everyone involved to carry out this challenging mission.”
The Chief outlined a multi-faceted approach to improve the league and support athletes. He highlighted plans to increase stadium attendance by creating a welcoming and secure environment with the help of security forces. Broadcasting will be enhanced, using social media and media outlets to reach fans beyond stadium walls.
A key priority is attracting professional players from Europe, Africa, and neighboring countries. The association aims to ensure these players’ rights and contracts are respected, offering bonds and timely salaries. Developing young local talent is also central, with youth leagues like the under-20 competition already active and a commitment to revitalizing football academies.
Captain Siamand also spoke about building connections with European clubs to facilitate player training and possibly open academy branches in Kurdistan. Raising refereeing standards through special courses with international instructors and introducing advanced VAR technology are additional goals, with requests for support from FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation.
Improving infrastructure remains crucial. The association plans to renovate existing stadiums and build new ones that meet international standards, contingent on receiving adequate funding and cooperation from the government and global sports organizations.
Efforts to broaden media coverage include partnering with private TV channels to broadcast games in Kurdish, Arabic, and English. Friendly matches with prominent regional and world teams are planned to raise the league’s profile further.
International relations will be strengthened to enhance league management, including fostering player exchanges between Kurdistan and foreign clubs.
On financing, the Football Association has formally requested support from the Kurdistan Regional Government to ensure the new season starts on schedule, alongside seeking sponsorships from major companies.
Captain Salahadin Siamand concluded by expressing hope for collaboration from government officials and journalists, underlining their commitment to serve Kurdistan’s sports community without discrimination. “We want stadiums to be places of true sporting spirit, free from conflicts, with security cooperation ensuring a positive atmosphere,” he said.
