Baghdad, The head of the Qatari and Gulf Football Associations, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, confirmed that the next edition of the Arab Gulf Football Cup “Gulf 25” will be held in Basra as predetermined for it, and there is no intention at all to move the tournament outside Iraq.
Sheikh Hamad said in a press statement: I honestly feel very sad when I hear that there are doubts about holding the Gulf Cup in Basra.
He added: I assure everyone that the tournament will be held in Iraq with the efforts of its people and men.
He continued, “I say to all Iraqis, never worry… the tournament will be held in Iraq, and all evidence confirms this.”
Sheikh Hamad indicated that a delegation from the Gulf Federation will visit Basra on September 19, to take over Al-Mina Stadium and complete the rest of the arrangements for holding the championship, and God willing, things will go well.
He added: the only case that will prevent the establishment of the championship in Iraq is the occurrence of anything outside the will, God forbid, but except for that, we have absolutely no intention of withdrawing the 25th Gulf Arab from Basra.
The President of the Gulf Federation concluded his speech by saying: I announce it briefly and I hope that the message will reach the media and the Iraqi people, Gulf 25 Basrawi (in Basra) and on my responsibility.
Source: National Iraqi News Agency