Iraq officially named host of 28th edition of the Arabian Gulf Cup

Iraq has been selected to host the 28th edition of the Arabian Gulf Cup, following approval by the Executive Office of the Gulf Football Federation during its meeting in Jeddah.

The decision was announced on Monday, September 28, while the 27th edition of the tournament is taking place in Saudi Arabia.

Gulf Cup 28 scheduled for 2028

According to reports following the Executive Office meeting, Khaleeji 28 is scheduled to run from December 9 to 22, 2028. Video Agencyia

The Iraqi government and Iraqi Football Association are expected to coordinate on the city and stadiums that will stage the tournament. Some Iraqi reports have pointed to Basra as the proposed host city, although detailed venue arrangements have yet to be formally announced. Video Agencyia

Third time Iraq will host the Gulf Cup

The 2028 tournament will mark the third time Iraq has hosted the Arabian Gulf Cup.

Iraq first staged the competition in 1979 and later hosted Gulf Cup 25 in Basra in 2023, when the Iraqi national team won the title after defeating Oman in the final. FilGoal.com

Decision made during Khaleeji 27

The hosting decision was made while Gulf Cup 27 is being held in Jeddah, where eight national teams are competing from September 23 to October 6, 2026. QNA

The Executive Office meeting also discussed future Gulf football competitions and the development of tournaments organised by the federation.

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