Al-Shorta Baghdad

Formation and Early Years

Al-Shorta Sports Club, based in Al-Rusafa, Baghdad, was established in 1932 by Mudhafar Ahmed, the director of the Police Schools in Baghdad. The football team quickly made its mark by participating in the second edition of the Prince Ghazi Cup during the 1932–33 season and secured its first trophy in 1938 by winning the Taha Al-Hashimi Cup. This was followed by victories in the Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya Cup and the Al-Olympi Club Cup in 1939. Initially known as Madaris Al-Shorta (Police Schools), the team later adapted its name to reflect the formation of a new Police team called Al-Quwa Al-Siyara (Mobile Force).

The Select XI Era

With the establishment of the Iraq Football Association in 1948, Al-Shorta transitioned into a competitive force by forming a Police Select XI (Montakhab Al-Shorta) to compete in the inaugural Baghdad top-flight league season. Although they faced relegation in their first season, they continued to evolve, merging with Al-Quwa Al-Siyara to create the Al-Shorta Select XI 'A' and 'B' teams. The 'A' team notably finished as runners-up in the top-flight during the 1957–58 season, marking a significant achievement in the club's history.

Recent Developments

Al-Shorta has continued to thrive in Iraqi football, competing in the Iraq Stars League, the premier league of the country. Since 2026, the team has played its home matches at the newly constructed Al-Shorta Stadium, which stands on the site of its previous home, symbolizing the club's enduring legacy and commitment to the sport.