Iraq FA approves home grounds for Baghdad clubs in 2026-27 Stars League

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Iraqi Football Federation has officially approved the primary and reserve home stadiums for Baghdad-based clubs competing in the 2026-27 Stars League. The International City Stadium will host Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya and Talaba, while Kaptan Sharar Haidar Stadium will be home to Karkh and Naft. Zawra Stadium will serve Zawra and Electricity, and Police Stadium will be the venue for Police. The federation said the league will open on October 14 at Norouz Stadium in Sulaymaniyah, with 20 clubs set to take part in the competition. Federation Licensing Committee spokesperson Bilal Zaki said the licensing system will close on October 1 and the list of licensed clubs will be announced on October 5. Clubs that fail to meet the requirements will be given a two-day window to file appeals, according to Zaki. Separately, Iranian clubs Sepahan and Tractor will play their AFC Champions League Elite matches in Iraq.