Google has announced a landmark regional partnership, naming Google Gemini—its advanced AI-powered assistant—as the official technology sponsor for the national football teams of Iraq and Morocco ahead of their participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
This strategic collaboration between Google, the Iraqi Football Federation, and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation marks a new chapter for Arab football, blending cutting-edge technology with rich sporting heritage to transform the fan experience and strengthen the bond between teams and their supporters locally and globally.
### AI-Powered Fan Engagement
Google Gemini will bring fans closer to their teams through innovative, AI-driven interactive tools. Supporters can create unique, personalized cheering content and engage with their national sides in unprecedented ways.
Over the three-month partnership period, Google will launch a series of digital initiatives in cooperation with both federations, aimed at boosting fan participation using Gemini’s advanced capabilities.
Fans will be able to use text-to-image models to design custom cheering banners, or the text-to-music model Lyria to compose energetic songs for their teams—offering an immersive experience that mimics stadium atmosphere.
Additionally, football enthusiasts can rely on Gemini for technical performance analysis, simplified explanations of game rules, in-depth match insights, and even match result predictions.
### Google’s Commitment to Arab Football
This partnership underscores Google’s dedication to integrating technology into Arab sports, enriching fan experiences through smart solutions that bridge football passion with tech innovation. It demonstrates how the convergence of artificial intelligence and sporting tradition can make “the beautiful game” more inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
### Official Statements
Adnan Darjal, President of the Iraqi Football Federation, said: “We are delighted to sign this partnership with Google, given its global standing and pioneering value in the technology sector. This agreement grants us numerous benefits, foremost among them the use of the latest AI technologies to enhance the commercial and marketing value of the Iraqi national team, which returns to the elite stage after a 40-year absence.”
Najib Jarrar, Regional Marketing and Product Director at Google for the Middle East and North Africa, commented: “We are excited to support the historic national football teams of Iraq and Morocco. Through Google Gemini, we aim to harness the power of AI to elevate the fan experience and celebrate the rich heritage of Arab football. This partnership goes beyond technology—it’s about connecting people with the sport they love in deeper, more meaningful ways.”
