Identifying the Contexts and Causal Factors Affecting the Sustainable Development of Professional Sports in Iraq

This study aimed to identify the contextual and causal factors influencing the sustainable development of professional sports in Iraq. The research employed a qualitative methodology based on the Grounded Theory approach, specifically following Strauss and Corbin’s systematic coding method. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 14 purposefully selected experts in the field of sports development, including policymakers, managers, and academics. Snowball sampling was used to ensure the inclusion of diverse perspectives until theoretical saturation was reached. The interviews, ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours, were transcribed and analyzed in three stages: open coding, axial coding, and selective coding. This process enabled the identification of categories and subcategories contributing to the development of a conceptual model for sustainable sports advancement in Iraq. The analysis revealed two primary dimensions shaping sports sustainability: contextual and causal conditions. Contextual factors included economic resources (oil wealth, corporate investment), geographic advantages (climate and location), human capital (skilled professionals and athletes), public and international policies, and available infrastructure (universities, venues, tourism capacity). Causal factors encompassed public health concerns (inactivity, youth issues), athletic potential (youth fitness, international success), social dynamics (youth interest, inclusion of women and disabled populations), and sports diplomacy (international prestige and cooperation). These interrelated dimensions highlight the importance of strategic planning, institutional alignment, and international engagement. Sustainable development of professional sports in Iraq requires a multidimensional strategy integrating economic planning, human resource investment, infrastructural development, and diplomatic positioning. Iraq’s latent potential can be realized through coordinated efforts that embed sports within national development agendas and foster cross-sectoral collaboration. Emphasis on youth engagement, health promotion, and global visibility is essential to drive long-term success.