Sharar Haidar Iraqi football player Died at 52

Sharar Haidar Mohammad Al-Hadithi (Arabic: شرار حيدر; 15 August 1971 – 22 September 2023) was a notable figure in Iraqi football history. Known as a skilled defender, he represented the Iraq national team in prestigious events like the 1989 FIFA World Youth Championship and the 1994 FIFA World Cup qualification. Beyond his sports career, he also served as the chairman of Al-Karkh, and later made headlines for revealing harrowing details about player treatment under Uday Hussein. He passed away on September 22, 2023, due to a heart attack at the age of 52.

Early Career

Born on August 15, 1971, Sharar Haidar showed promise as a young footballer. His talent did not go unnoticed, and he was selected to represent Iraq in international competitions.

National Team Career (1989-1992)

Between 1989 and 1992, Haidar was a key defender for the Iraq national team. He played in the 1989 FIFA World Youth Championship and participated in the 1994 FIFA World Cup qualification. His contributions during this period were vital in putting Iraqi football on the global map.

Chairman of Al-Karkh (2003)

After retiring from active football, Haidar was appointed chairman of Al-Karkh, a significant role that allowed him to continue influencing Iraqi football from an administrative perspective.

Exile and Revelations (1998)

In a brave and risky move, Haidar fled Iraq in 1998 and exposed the dark side of Iraqi football governance. He told the media how players were subjected to torture after losses, ordered by Uday Hussein, the eldest son of Saddam Hussein. His revelations shocked the world and cast a spotlight on the grim conditions faced by athletes under the Hussein regime.

Death (2023)

Tragically, Sharar Haidar passed away on September 22, 2023, from a heart attack. He was 52 years old at the time of his death, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered both for his contributions to the sport and for his courage in speaking out against tyranny.

Sharar Haidar Mohammad Al-Hadithi was more than just a footballer; he was a man of courage who stood up against oppressive regimes. His life was a blend of athletic prowess and social advocacy, and although his death is a significant loss, his contributions to football and human rights in Iraq will not be forgotten.