Football has always been more than a game in Syria; it’s a thread that ties together neighbors, families, and strangers across cities and generations. For decades, the sport spoke a shared language that brought people together, no matter where they came from. But the war years hit hard, and Syrian football—like so much of the country—suffered deeply. Yet the game endures in memory, in small rallies, and in the stubborn hope of fans who dream of brighter days ahead.

Football During the War Years

Throughout Assad’s rule, Syrian sports were severely affected. Many stadiums that once hosted cheering fans were transformed into military sites. Some were used as barracks, others as launching points for attacks. A painful example is Abbasiyin Stadium in Damascus, which was turned into a military zone and associated with shelling nearby areas such as Eastern Ghouta.

Training stopped, leagues were disrupted, and countless young talents lost the chance to develop in a safe sporting environment. Football, once a space of joy, became another casualty of war.

The Impact on Syrian Players

Syrian footballers were forced to take different paths. Some left the country to pursue their careers abroad, while others stopped playing altogether, and a few continued under challenging circumstances. This fragmentation affected the national team’s cohesion for years, as players were scattered across different leagues, countries, and levels of competition.
Yet, despite these challenges, the passion for the game never disappeared.

Football in Syria and Freedom: Abdulbaset Al-Sarout, the Goalkeeper of the Revolution

In the history of football in Syria, few names carry meaning beyond the pitch like Abdulbaset Al-Sarout. Once a promising goalkeeper for the Syrian national youth team, Al-Sarout became one of the most powerful symbols of the Syrian revolution. He chose to stand against oppression and injustice, using his voice and presence to call for dignity, freedom, and an end to darkness in Syria. His journey from the football field to the streets of resistance reflects how sport, courage, and conscience can intersect in moments of national struggle. Al-Sarout remains a lasting symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and the dream of a free Syria.

A New Chapter After Liberation

After Syria’s liberation, football slowly began to reclaim its place in public life. One of the most powerful moments was the reunification of the Syrian national team, bringing together players from different backgrounds and journeys under one flag once again.

In 2025, Syria’s participation in the Arab Cup carried a meaning far beyond results. The team delivered performances that exceeded expectations, showing determination, unity, and renewed confidence. For many Syrians, these matches were a sign that the country was not only returning to international competitions, but doing so with dignity and hope.

Rebuilding Stadiums and Infrastructure

Today, Syria is actively working on rehabilitating football stadiums and sports infrastructure. Efforts are underway to restore major venues, improve pitches, seating, and facilities, and create safer, more modern environments for players and fans alike. These stadiums are not just sports facilities—they are social spaces, cultural landmarks, and symbols of recovery.

Football as Part of the Syrian Travel Experience

For travelers visiting Syria, football offers a unique way to connect with local life. Attending a match, visiting historic stadiums, or even playing informal games with locals provides insight into Syrian resilience, passion, and community spirit.

Football in Syria today tells a story of survival, rebuilding, and unity—one that mirrors the country itself.
As Syria opens its doors to visitors once again, football stands as a reminder that life, culture, and hope are returning—stronger than before.

Discover Syria with Syria Scope Travel in a whole new way.
Don’t wait any longer; schedule your trip to Syria today!

For more information about Syria, please get in touch with us today! Alternatively, check out our extensive range of group Syria tours.