Iraq FA opens contract renewal talks with Arnold after 2026 World Cup qualification
The Iraqi Football Association, led by president Yunis Mahmud, held a closed-circuit video conference with Australian national team coach Graham Arnold to discuss renewing his contract. This meeting comes after the Lions of Mesopotamia achieved historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
What were the details of the meeting?
The meeting was attended by the president's advisor Ghayth Mehna, Arnold's agent Tony Ralls, and team translator Ali Abbas. Arnold's current contract with the Iraqi FA is set to expire on July 31, after he took charge of the team in May 2025. This meeting follows Iraq's recent heavy 5-0 defeat to Senegal on June 26, 2026, which extended their losing streak to five consecutive matches.
Why is Arnold considered crucial for Iraq?
Arnold led Iraq to only their second-ever World Cup qualification, with their first appearance coming in 1986. The experienced coach previously guided Australia to the 2022 World Cup and won the 2015 AFC Asian Cup. He is seen as the ideal candidate to lead the Lions of Mesopotamia at the 2026 World Cup.
What comes next?
Negotiations are expected to continue in the coming days as the Iraqi FA seeks to reach a mutual agreement with Arnold on contract renewal. The new deal is likely to be for two years, covering the 2026 World Cup preparations and the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.
