25th Arab Gulf Cup 2023
Laurel partnered with the Iraq Football Association (IFA) to deliver a truly memorable 25th Arabian Gulf Cup which was held in the southern city of Basra from January 6-19, 2023, the first time that a major sporting event had been held in Iraq for 40 years.
The event saw Laurel’s international expertise required across a number of operational areas to ensure that the eight-team regional tournament was held to the highest of world-class standards, having followed so soon after the Qatar World Cup.
Laurel recruited an international team of experts with extensive Olympic and FIFA World Cup experience to travel to Basra and embed within the local organising set-up to provide the following services in co-ordination with the IFA.
- Ticketing
- Spectator Services
- Volunteers
- Signage
- Sports Presentation
- Fan Zone (Basra International Stadium)
- Venue Media Operations
- Media Services
- Publications – Official VIP brochure, Media Guide and press releases/statements
- Photography Operations
Despite the challenges of operating in a ‘new’ country when it comes to major event hosting, the 25th Arabian Gulf Cup was an overwhelming success, with packed stadiums witnessing the host nation secure a truly memorable title.
The tournament also succeeded in demonstrating that Iraq is now open and ready to host more major sporting events, with Laurel leaving a strong legacy behind of thousands of trained volunteers and staff who operated alongside some of the best event management professionals in the business.