Supporters of Zakho SC have won the FIFA 2025 Fan Award, earning global recognition for a powerful act of solidarity with children battling cancer.
The award follows a memorable moment during an Iraqi Premier League match in May, when Zakho fans threw thousands of teddy bears onto the pitch. The toys were later donated to children undergoing cancer treatment, turning a football match into a message of compassion seen around the world.
FIFA confirmed the win this week, with President Gianni Infantino praising the supporters for transforming the stadium into a symbol of humanity and hope. Zakho SC had been shortlisted among the world’s top three fan bases earlier this year before securing the top honor through global online voting.
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The victory sparked celebrations across Kurdistan and among Kurdish communities abroad. Zakho SC President Ammar Farhad described the moment as unforgettable, crediting Kurds worldwide for uniting behind the club.
Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani congratulated the fans, calling the award a source of pride for the entire Region and a reflection of Kurdish values of peace and solidarity. Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani, and other leaders echoed the sentiment, emphasizing unity as the driving force behind the achievement.
Founded in 1987, Zakho SC — based in Zakho, Duhok province — has now etched its name into global football history, proving that the power of sport extends far beyond the pitch.
