Iraqi Premier League
The Iraqi Premier League, or Iraq Stars League, is the top tier of Iraqi football, featuring 18 professional clubs battling for the championship and AFC spots. It embodies the raw passion of Iraqi soccer culture, drawing massive crowds to stadiums in Baghdad, Basra, and Erbil despite historical challenges.
History and foundation
Founded in 1974 as the Iraq FA Premier League, with roots in 1948 tournaments. Wars and instability disrupted it: the 2003 invasion halted play, and ISIS conflicts from 2014–2017 forced neutral venues in Jordan. Fun fact: The 2007 Asian Cup-winning national team drew stars like Younis Mahmoud from this league. Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya holds the record with 11 titles.
Tournament format
Season runs September to July with a double round-robin format: 34 matches per team. Champion qualifies for AFC Champions League, top 2–4 for AFC Cup. Bottom two relegate to First Division, with playoffs. VAR introduced in 2023/24 at major venues for better officiating.
Interesting facts
Average goals per game hover at 2.4, emphasizing defensive solidity. Top scorers: Ayman Hussein (134 goals), Younis Mahmoud (89). Standouts include Humam Tariq (Al-Quwa), Amir Al-Zaman (Karbala), and South American/Serbian imports. Known for skillful midfielders and intense derbies like the Baghdad clash.