Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Congratulates Iraqi Volleyball Champions
“We wish them continued progress and reaffirm our support for athletes and sports institutions across Kurdistan,” PM Masrour Barzani.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani has extended his warmest congratulations to the athletes and coaches of Sanharib Club in Duhok, Akad in Ankawa, and Qaraqush/Bakhdida for winning first, second, and third place in the national Iraqi volleyball championships.
In a statement posted on his official X account, Barzani praised the dedication and skill of the competitors and expressed hopes for their continued success. He reiterated the Kurdistan Regional Government’s support for athletes and the broader sports sector in the region, emphasizing the importance of fostering athletic talent and promoting healthy competition.
“Warmest congratulations to the leaders, coaches, and players of the Sanharib Club in Duhok, Akad in Ankawa, and Qaraqush/Bakhdida for achieving first, second, and third places in the Iraqi national volleyball championships,” the Prime Minister said. “We wish them continued progress and reaffirm our support for athletes and sports institutions across Kurdistan.”
The Kurdistan Region has increasingly invested in sports infrastructure and youth development programs over the past decade, particularly during the ninth cabinet, with the aim of promoting physical education, social cohesion, and regional pride. Clubs such as Sanharib, Akad, and Qaraqush/Bakhdida have become important hubs for local talent, offering volleyball training and other sports disciplines.
Volleyball, in particular, has grown in popularity among young Kurds, combining teamwork, fitness, and strategic skills. Competitions at the national level, such as the Iraqi volleyball championships, provide athletes from the Kurdistan Region the opportunity to compete against peers from across the country, helping to raise standards and increase visibility for regional sports programs.
Beyond training and competitions, the Kurdistan Regional Government supports sports initiatives through funding, facilities development, and coaching programs. The Ministry of Youth and Sports, alongside local authorities, has launched several campaigns to encourage young people—especially in smaller towns and rural areas—to participate in organized sports.
These initiatives aim to strengthen community engagement, promote healthy lifestyles, and identify talent that can represent Kurdistan and Iraq internationally.
Athletic success also serves as a source of regional pride, uniting communities and fostering a sense of identity. Prime Minister Barzani’s public congratulations highlight the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to recognizing and promoting the achievements of its athletes while reinforcing the importance of continued support for sports development across all levels.
