The College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at the University of Baghdad discussed a master’s thesis by Tariq Khudair Dakhil, entitled “The Reality of Applying the Spanish LaLiga System Standards from the Perspective of the Administrative Boards of Iraqi Stars League Football Clubs for the 2025–2026 Season.”
The study is significant as it addresses the major transformation taking place in Iraqi football through the strategic partnership with LaLiga. It aims to provide a scientific assessment of this development and examine the readiness of local clubs to adopt international professional standards, particularly in administrative and financial governance, transparency, infrastructure, marketing, and competitiveness.
The findings showed notably high mean scores across all dimensions of the assessment, reflecting an advanced level of institutional awareness among sports administrators regarding the importance of contemporary professional standards. The findings also highlighted their role in improving financial governance and transparency, developing infrastructure, and organizing technical and administrative procedures, including electronic player registration and compliance with mandatory medical examinations.
The researcher recommended continuing to support the strategic partnership with LaLiga and expanding the application of its standards across all operational aspects of football clubs. The study also emphasized the need to provide financial and logistical support to help clubs meet financial fair play requirements and develop their infrastructure and stadiums in accordance with international standards.
SDGs: SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions).
