Iraq – Lions of Mesopotamia

World Cup Appearances: 1986 and 2026

Highest Finish: Group Stage

Iraq’s 2021/22 jerseys drew inspiration from the symbols and artistic traditions of ancient Mesopotamia, connecting modern football with one of the world’s oldest civilizations. These kits featured graphics based on the Babylon palm, a symbol associated with victory, alongside motifs inspired by the Ishtar Gate, the monumental entrance to the ancient city of Babylon.

The away jersey expanded this historical narrative by incorporating Assyrian rosettes, decoratives commonly found in the art and architecture of ancient Assyria. Traditional Kufic Arabic script was included, linking Iraq’s contemporary identity with its rich cultural heritage.

More than a football uniform, the jersey celebrated Iraq as the“Cradle of Civilization.” By weaving Babylonian and Mesopotamian symbols into the design, the kit transformed the national team into ambassadors of a history spanning thousands of years, carrying the legacy of ancient Iraq onto the modern sporting stage.