While traditionally less frequent than their male counterparts, Kurdish girls are increasingly embracing the excitement of sports, showing strong support for games both in stadiums and through alternative venues like cafes and indoor sports halls.
Over the years, the number of women and girls watching games in Kurdistan has steadily risen. Many gather in groups at home or in public spaces, while others attend indoor sports events like volleyball, tennis, swimming, and even chess or ballet competitions. Although exact statistics on female attendance at games are not available, reports show a clear upward trend in female viewership.
Kurdistan’s passion for sports is evident, with large crowds often filling stadiums to capacity. At the Franso Hariri Stadium, for example, attendance can reach up to 20,000 spectators, underscoring the region’s enthusiasm for sports. While women’s presence at outdoor stadiums remains smaller than men’s, a growing number of girls are taking part in the excitement, especially for indoor sports.
Sports observers note that women’s increasing participation in viewing games is a positive development. “No sport is exclusive to any gender—each sport has its own diverse audience,” they affirm, highlighting how female support is becoming a crucial part of the sporting culture in Kurdistan.
This shift reflects a broader cultural transformation, where women and girls are not only spectators but are also gaining a stronger voice in the world of sports, empowering themselves and shaping the future of the region’s sports culture.