FIFA suspends Iraq

FIFA today suspended the Iraqi Football Federation, throwing their participation in World Cup qualifying into doubt.

The Federation (IFA) was last week dissolved by the Iraqi government, along with the country’s Olympic Committee and all other sporting bodies.

FIFA’s executive committee took the decision to suspend the IFA on the first day of their meeting in Sydney and have recommended a one-year absence from all competition.

The suspension may be lifted, however, if FIFA receives by May 29 written confirmation from the Iraqi government that their initial ruling has been overturned.

Should that not occur, it is unlikely 2007 Asian Cup winners Iraq will be able to play their next World Cup qualifier against Australia in Brisbane on June 1.

Iraq are bottom of Asian qualifying Group One with one point from two games.