CAS rejects request to freeze Iraq Football Federation over disputed election

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Court of Arbitration for Sport has turned down a request to suspend the Iraq Football Federation led by President Younis Mahmoud, filed by his predecessor Adnan Dirjal. The court ruled on the procedural request without addressing the underlying merits of the case or the validity of the election. Dirjal had brought the challenge to CAS over irregularities he alleged in the vote held in Baghdad in May, in which Mahmoud was elected president with 38 votes against 20. The complaint centers on alleged violations during the election process and the procedures leading up to it. Alongside its decision to deny the suspension request, the court granted the federation an extension to submit its formal response and defense to Dirjal's complaint. The case will continue to be heard after both sides' submissions and the submitted documents are reviewed. During the proceedings, the Iraq Football Federation under Mahmoud will remain in office and continue its operations.