Published: 26 May, 2008, 15:35
Edited: 26 May, 2008, 15:35
Iraq has been banned from all FIFA sanctioned competitions for the next year, in retaliation for an Iraq government decision to dissolve the National Olympic Committee and all sport federations.
Iraq’s national football team is currently Asian Champions, but the recent decision means that it is neither going to compete in the Beijing Olympic Games nor take part in the 2010 World Championship qualifier.
The disqualification has taken effect immediately, but FIFA has noted that it can still be lifted if the Iraqi government reconsiders its decision.