Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani has injected 450 million dinars into Sulaimani’s Newroz Sports Club, ending months of financial uncertainty that left players and staff without pay. The lifeline comes after the club faced mounting debt and the threat of collapse in the Iraq Stars League, following delays in salary payments that at times stretched to two months.
The funding follows a public plea from the club’s fan association, which drew widespread support from politicians, artists, and local business leaders. The Prime Minister’s intervention not only stabilizes the club’s finances but also allows Newroz to refocus on the field, free from the pressures of unpaid obligations.
Officials emphasized that this support reflects the Kurdistan Regional Government’s ongoing commitment to sports, including backing football and volleyball teams, investing in youth programs, and hosting international events such as the Women’s Minifootball World Cup in Erbil. The goal, they said, is to ensure clubs like Newroz can “represent the Kurdistan Region at a high level” and continue fostering pride and talent across the region.
Prime Minister Barzani has consistently celebrated Kurdish sporting achievements, from historic football victories to regional volleyball successes, framing such accomplishments as a source of national pride and a testament to the power of sport to unite and inspire communities.
