Ali Al-Hamadi’s road from refugee child to Iraq World Cup star (opens original article in a new tab)

Former Iraqi President Barham Salih and national footballer Ali Al-Hamadi discussed Al-Hamadi's journey from refugee child to World Cup player, highlighting themes of displacement and perseverance.

• Former Iraqi President Barham Salih spoke with Ali Al-Hamadi via video call ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup
• Ali Al-Hamadi fled Iraq as a child and now plays for the Iraqi national team in its first World Cup since 1986
• Al-Hamadi is an ambassador for a charity focused on mental health and suicide prevention
• Salih now leads the UN Refugee Agency while Al-Hamadi's story symbolizes perseverance and national identity