ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq – Fans of Zakho SC made history on Tuesday after receiving the prestigious FIFA Fan Award, in recognition of the humanitarian spirit and passion of the supporters of the Kurdish football club.
The international football federation made the announcement through an online post on Tuesday, describing the Zakho fans as a “special community.”
Back in May, ahead of a fixture against Al-Hudood, Zakho supporters threw thousands of stuffed animals onto the pitch, all of which were donated to children suffering from cancer.
The club at the time hailed the touching gesture, calling it an act of “exemplary humanitarian spirit” and thanking the fans, who they called “the backbone of the team.”
Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani congratulated the club’s supporters on receiving the global distinction, thanking all those who voted.
“This is a great win for sports and for sports fans across Kurdistan and Iraq,” wrote the Kurdish premier on X.
Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani lauded the achievement as “not only a victory for Zakho, but also a pride for the entire sports movement in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq,” urging the supporters to “always remain on top, and be a strong supporter for the development of sports and upholding the name of Kurdistan.”
“With your enthusiasm and civilized way of support, you turned the stadium into a beautiful painting and conveyed the message of peace, love, and love of life of the Kurdish people to the world,” read a statement from the Kurdistan Region president.
Kurdistan Region Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani congratulated the fans, while stating that “the sweetness of winning this award is that it was the product of the solidarity and support of all Kurdish people,” lauding the “unanimous” support the Kurdish people displayed toward Zakho during the voting period.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino also congratulated Zakho’s fans on the achievement.
“For this gesture and for these great emotions, Zakho SC fans, you have been awarded the Best FIFA Fan Award 2025,” said Infantino in a video statement.
High-profile figures in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq cast their ballots online to support the club during the voting period, including Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani, President Masoud Barzani, and Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani.
