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The Qatar Football Association’s Referees Committee announced today the appointment of referee Abdullah Al Athba to officiate the 2026 Amir Cup final between Al Sadd and Al Gharafa, slated for Saturday at Khalifa International Stadium. Al Athba will be assisted by Yousef Aref as first assistant referee and Zahi Al Shammari as second assistant referee. Nasser Ayesh will serve as the fourth official, and Falah Al Shahrani as the reserve assistant referee.Meshari Al Shammari will be the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), assisted by Mohammed Al Sharif as VAR 1 and Talib Salem as VAR 2. Al Gharafa qualified for the final after defeating Al Wakrah, while Al Sadd advanced by defeating Al Duhail in the two semi-final matches. Related Story Source link
Al Shahania and Al Kharaitiyat face off in a decisive relegation play-off tomorrow, with a place in next season’s Qatar Stars League at stake at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 7pm, as a top-flight side battles to retain its status against an ambitious Second Division challenger seeking promotion. Al Shahania enter under pressure after finishing 11th in the QSL with 21 points, a result that forced them into the play-off. They approach the contest knowing defeat would confirm relegation. Al Kharaitiyat, meanwhile, arrive in confident mood following a strong Second Division campaign. They finished runners-up with 25 points behind champions Lusail, who secured automatic promotion. Unbeaten throughout the season and with the best defensive record in the league, Al Kharaitiyat will be aiming to carry that momentum into what promises to be a tense and decisive encounter. Speaking ahead of the clash, Al Shahania assistant coach Pejman Montazeri acknowledged the challenge awaiting his team. “The entire season hinges on this match. We have watched them, they are a good team with a strong structure, and it will be a very difficult game for us,” he said. Montazeri, however, expressed confidence in his side’s recent progress, highlighting improvements in mentality and performances in the closing stages of the season. “The players are aware of this and we are well-prepared. The team is improving significantly in terms of mentality and form, as seen in the last few matches. But we are up against a side that has not lost and has the best defence, so it will be a tough match,” he added. Echoing his coach’s sentiments, Al Shahania player Lotfi Madjer described the encounter as a ‘final’. “Everyone knows this match is very important and the entire season depends on it. It is about either staying in the First Division or being relegated,” he said. Al Kharaitiyat coach Rachid Tiberkanine has warned his side face a tough test against Al Shahaniya in the promotion play-off, describing it as the most important stage of their season. “The team has worked hard since the start of the season to achieve direct promotion, but we did not succeed,” he said. “However, hope remains to crown a full season’s effort with victory and promotion. Preparations are going well. We have focused on the mental side as much as the tactical one, because matches like these are decided by small details, composure and avoiding mistakes.” The match will go to extra time and, if needed, penalties in case of a draw, ensuring a decisive outcome in this high-stakes battle. Related Story Source link
Olympic champion Cameron McEvoy thinks he can take even more time off the 50 metres freestyle world record he set in March, even as he takes on the new challenge of adding 50m butterfly titles to his resume. With 50m gold medals in all four strokes on offer at an Olympics for the first time at the 2028 Los Angeles Games, the Australian will look to earn selection in the butterfly sprint at national trials before bidding for medals at the July 23 to August 2 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. His teammates’ hopes that he might add 100m freestyle to his repertoire and help Australia win relay titles have been dashed, though, with the 31-year-old adamant it would be too difficult to juggle. McEvoy, whose innovative training methods have been copied by rivals, says the same stripped-back regime that has brought him Olympic and world titles is equally applicable for the butterfly splash-and-dash. “It’s one to one. The only difference is technique but everything else really comes under the same banner,” he said. “So I wouldn’t have to change my training at all. It would just be exposing myself to trying to unlock the right butterfly technique.” McEvoy swam the 50m butterfly virtually on a whim at the 2024 Doha world championships and took a surprise bronze in the event. He shelved the stroke to focus on winning 50m freestyle gold at the Paris Olympics and says he is still very early in the journey to optimise his performance. He swam a personal best of 23.05 seconds in the 50m butterfly at the China Open meet in March, two days after his 50m freestyle world record (20.88). “So there is crossover there, and I think a little bit of scope to — if I trained it properly — move the needle a little bit more,” he said. McEvoy is wary of putting too much time into butterfly as he focuses on raising the bar in the freestyle. He noted the last five metres of his world-record swim in China were slower than his world championship swim at Fukuoka in 2023. “So right off the bat, there’s 0.12 (seconds) in the last five metres alone,” he said. “There’s a little bit of low-hanging fruit left to take, and maybe cut a 10th (of a second) here and there.” If McEvoy sounds confident it is only because he has the data to back it up, and a love for the maths and physics that underpin his pursuit of perfection. He is an open book about his training regime which involves fewer laps, more weights and coaching the nervous system to transfer gym-built strength into power in the water. People have called him an “idiot” for being so open-source about his formula for success, he said, but he regards it as his contribution to improving the sport through innovation. “You see time and time again, people burning out, leaving the sport, hating it,” he added. “And so it was an opportunity to not only allow people to have another path to get to where they wanted to go, but they can still continue with the sport and not hate it.” Leaving that legacy sounds just as important to McEvoy as his four Olympic and 10 world championships medals, a haul that would be the envy of most swimmers but one that has generated little commercial reward. Even after his world record McEvoy is not signed with any major sponsor, and he said the corporate apathy had taken him a bit by surprise. Ironically, doped-up swimmers at the upcoming Enhanced Games in Las Vegas will have the chance to earn prize money that clean athletes like McEvoy can only dream of. Focused on winning Olympic and world titles, McEvoy said he had never seriously considered signing up for Enhanced but cast no judgement on those who had. “The access to that form of finance is literally one message away. And knowing that has been really tough to deal with (but) wasn’t something I’d ever act on,” he said. Source link
His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, crowned Al Arabi champions of the HH the Amir Basketball Cup for the 2025–2026 season, following their 84–63 victory over Al Sadd in the final held at Al Gharafa Hall. The match was played before a large crowd in an electrifying atmosphere. Al Arabi dominated the first three quarters (22–16, 27–25, 32–9), while Al Sadd took the fourth (13–3). The coronation ceremony was held in a festive setting, with Sheikh Joaan presenting the trophy to Al Arabi’s captain amid jubilant celebrations by players, staff, and fans. Mohammed bin Saad al-Mughaiseeb, President of the Qatar Basketball Federation, also participated in the ceremony. Al Arabi received gold medals and a financial prize of QR 1.5 million, while Al Sadd claimed silver medals and a prize of QR 900,000. Bahraini star Mustafa Hussain “Mosti” stood out for Al Arabi, scoring 31 points, while Al Sadd’s duo Dejan Janic and Steven Bernard Linard Green each contributed 17 points. The closing ceremony of the 2025–2026 season also honored sponsors who contributed to the success of the tournament, including Elite Motors, Musafir Trading & Transport, Rosewood Doha Hotel, Shaat Al Bahr Group, winwin.com, and Murial Water Park. The referees of the final were also recognized for their outstanding officiating. In recognition of Al Arabi’s historic achievements, QBF awarded the club the Sports Excellence Shield for the 2025–2026 season. The shield was received by His Excellency Sheikh Tamim bin Fahd al-Thani, President of Al Arabi Sports Club, celebrating the team’s unprecedented treble: winning the Qatar Basketball League, the Qatar Cup, and the HH the Amir Cup, in addition to multiple youth titles. Meanwhile, Al Rayyan claimed the inaugural Qatar Basketball Super Cup this season, underscoring the ongoing rivalry among the country’s top clubs. Al Arabi reached the final after defeating Al Ahli 89–70 in the semi-finals, and earlier overcoming Qatar Club 104–73 in the quarter-finals. Al Sadd advanced by beating Al Rayyan 87–72 in the semi-finals, after eliminating Al Shamal 107–96 in the quarter-finals. The Amir Cup has a rich history, first launched in the 1999–2000 season, and has since witnessed fierce competition among Qatari clubs. Al Rayyan holds the record with 14 final appearances and 10 titles, followed by Al Gharafa with 5 titles. Before this edition, Al Arabi and Al Sadd each had 4 titles, while Qatar and Al Jaish won twice each. Last season, Al Rayyan defeated Al Arabi 77–70 to lift the trophy. Following the coronation, President of QBF, expressed his delight at the success of the tournament, noting: “Today’s final reflected the remarkable progress of Qatari basketball, both at the club and player levels. It was a showcase of professionalism and sportsmanship.” Saadoun Sabah al-Kuwari, Secretary General of the Federation and Director of National Teams, added: “The final embodied true competition. It was not just about the title, but a test of mental and technical readiness, essential for preparing national team players to compete internationally.” Assistant Secretary General Ahmed Yousef al-Darwish emphasized that the season marked a turning point for the sport, highlighting the strong attendance and professional organization as proof of the Federation’s strategic success. Board Member Nasser Ajlan al-Kaabi noted: “The fierce competition among clubs raised the level of the tournament. Big matches like this final provide players with invaluable experience.” Board Member Mishal Abdullah al-Maliki praised the overall organization, stressing that success was the result of collective effort between the Federation, clubs, and sponsors. Board Member Abdullah Sultan al-Jaber confirmed that the next phase will focus more on youth categories: “We aim to build a new generation capable of sustaining success Investing in talent is the right path forward.” Board Member Ms. Zahra Majid al-Zaidan highlighted the growing fan interest: “We are committed to offering a complete fan experience, not only through matches but also through accompanying events.” Entertainment was also part of the final, with interactive halftime contests for fans, including shooting challenges with prizes, adding a festive touch to the evening. The night concluded with Elite Motors presenting the grand prize to fans, a 2026 Chery Tiggo 2 car, awarded through a live raffle immediately after the match, drawing wide excitement from the crowd. Related Story Source link
HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC), attended the final day of the boys’ competitions at the 19th edition of the Schools Olympic Programme, held at Aspire Dome. The final day was also attended by Sheikh Suhail bin Butti al-Maktoum, President of the UAE School and University Sports Federation; Sheikh Dr. Saqer bin Salman al-Khalifa, President of the Bahrain School and Collegiate Athletic Association; Hamad Abdullah al-Hamad, President of the Kuwait School Sports & Higher Education Federation; and Hasnae El Ayoubi, Executive Director of the International School Sport Federation. From the Qatari side, the event was attended by Dr. Thani bin Abdulrahman al-Kuwari, Second Vice President of the QOC; Jassim bin Rashid Al Buenain, Secretary General of the QOC; Dr. Ahmad Abdulla al-Buenain, Chief Executive Officer of the Doha 2030 Asian Games Organising Committee and the Director General of the Organising Committee of the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027; Abdulla al-Nuaimi, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Aspire Zone Foundation and Abdulrahman al-Muftah, Executive Director of the School Olympic Program, along with a number of presidents of national sports federations. This year’s edition witnessed wide participation, with approximately 25,000 students from public and private schools competing across 21 sports, including football, basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, swimming, padel, fencing, table tennis, athletics, wrestling, taekwondo, shooting, karate, judo, boccia, chess, cricket, weightlifting, esports, rowing and the Mini Basketball World Cup.. The Schools Olympic Programme was established in response to an initiative by His Highness Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, with the Qatar Olympic Committee organising the programme in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, the Qatar School Sport Federation, and the Qatar Paralympic Committee. The Schools Olympic Programme was first launched in the 2007–2008 season as a national initiative under the slogan “Sport and Health,” forming part of the legacy of the Doha 2006 Asian Games. The program aims to promote sports culture in schools, identify and develop young talent, and encourage healthy lifestyles among students. Related Story Source link
The Qatar Football Association and the Local OrganisingCommittee for Football Events announced today their readiness to host the Amir Cup Final 2026, set to take place at Khalifa International Stadium on 9 May. Now in its 54th edition, Qatar's most prestigious football fixture promises to be a memorable occasion both on and off the pitch, drawing fans and media from across the country and the wider region. This year, the LOC received around 700 media accreditation requests to cover the match.To ensure a smooth journey to the stadium, spectators are encouraged to use the Doha Metro, with Sport City Station on the Gold Line offering direct access to Khalifa International Stadium. Drop-off and pick-up points have been set up for fansusing Karwa taxi services. On-site parking is available for private vehicles, including dedicated spaces for fans with disabilities. Gates open at 2:30PM, with spectators encouraged to arrive early to enjoy a range of entertainment and cultural activitiesrooted in local Qatari heritage at the fan zone ahead of the 5:30PM kick-off. As part of the matchday programme, live prize draws will offer attendees the opportunity to win a number ofvaluable prizes, including cars, travel packages, electronics and cash rewards.Tickets are available at www.qfa.qa, with a limit of six per person. Once purchased, tickets will be delivered via the Road to Qatar app from 7 May. Accessibility ticket requests can be sent to accessibility.tickets@sc.qa.This year also marks 50 years since Khalifa International Stadium’s inauguration in 1976. Over the decades, the stadium has undergone significant modernisation, expanding its capacity to more than 45,000 while retaining its place as one of the most storied sporting grounds in the region. It has played host to numerous landmark events, including matches during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Source link
beIN SPORTS, the leading sports broadcaster in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), will mark the one-month milestone to the FIFA World Cup 2026 with comprehensive, bi-lingual, multi-channel coverage across the region on May 11.The 23rd edition of the global football showpiece will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada and is the first to feature 48 teams, including a record eight from the Arab world. The 39-day tournament is set to kick off on June 11, with Mexico facing South Africa in the opening match. To mark the occasion, beIN will deliver wall-to-wall FIFA World Cup coverage across 4 channels, including beIN SPORTS 1, beIN SPORTS NEWS, and beIN SPORTS ENGLISH 1. The lineup will feature the best matches from past tournaments, along with archive content and team documentaries in both Arabic and English. Viewers can also expect live reactions from beIN’s extensive network of reporters around the world. At 19:00 MECCA (16:00 GMT), a celebratory live studio broadcast will air for two and a half hours on beIN SPORTS NEWS and beIN SPORTS 1. Featuring beIN’s star presenters and analysts, the studio will revisit beIN’s coverage highlights from previous FIFA World Cups while also looking ahead to the FIFA World Cup 2026. The studio will spotlight the preparations of the eight participating Arab teams – Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia and Iraq. The studio broadcast will also mark the launch of beIN’s six dedicated FIFA World Cup MAX channels. All 104 matches will be available live and exclusively on these channels, with commentary in Arabic, English, and French for every game. Drawing on beIN SPORTS’ extensive tournament archive, the legacy of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, and a closer look at the 16 venues across the three host countries, beIN will deliver exclusive countdown coverage as anticipation builds toward this highly anticipated global event. Mohammed Al Bader, Managing Director of beIN Channels – MENA, said: “Reaching the one-month milestone marks the beginning of a new phase of anticipation for fans across the region. beIN SPORTS’ comprehensive coverage reflects our commitment to delivering world-class production, expert analysis, and exclusive access as we count down to the biggest tournament in football history. Through dedicated programming across our Arabic and English channels, we will bring viewers closer to every story, every training camp, and every key moment as the road to 11 June gathers pace.”With wall-to-wall programming and dedicated analysis, beIN SPORTS reinforces its position as the home of global football in the region. Source link
Vodafone Qatar hosted a blood donation drive as part of its ongoing corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme, in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and Msheireb Properties. The donation drive was open to Vodafone Qatar employees, partners, and the wider public, reflecting the company’s belief that meaningful community impact extends beyond its own workforce. HMC’s medical team was present throughout to screen donors and oversee the donation process, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for all participants. There is a continuous and critical need for blood donations. Donated blood supports patients undergoing surgery, those receiving treatment for conditions such as anaemia and leukaemia, and individuals recovering from accidents or medical emergencies, making each donation potentially life-saving. Abdulhadi al-Sahli, head of Media Relations and CSR at Vodafone Qatar, said: “At Vodafone Qatar, we are committed to supporting initiatives that bring people together to benefit the wider community. This blood donation drive has brought our employees and partners together to contribute to a cause that supports patients across Qatar, and we are pleased to partner with HMC and Msheireb Properties on this initiative.” Related Story Source link
Al Sadd and Al Duhail players battle for the ball. Al Sadd stormed into the Amir Cup final with an emphatic 4-1 victory over Al Duhail in a high-intensity semi-final clash at Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium last night. Goals from Akram Afif and Rafa Mujica handed Al Sadd a comfortable two-goal lead at the break, putting the Qatar Stars League champions firmly in control of proceedings. Al Duhail responded early in the second half through Boubakary Soumare to cut the deficit, briefly raising hopes of a comeback. However, Al Sadd quickly reasserted their dominance. Captain Hassan al-Haydos, introduced from the bench, delivered a decisive blow with the third goal to kill off the contest, before Afif added his second and Al Sadd’s fourth deep into stoppage time. Al Sadd produced a commanding attacking display throughout, controlling the tempo in what was the seventh Amir Cup semi-final meeting between the two fierce rivals. Al Gharafa’s goalkeeper Khalifa Abubakar (centre), who was named man of the match, celebrates with…
His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, attended the closing day of the boys’ competitions at the 19th edition of the Schools Olympic Program, held today at Aspire Dome. The closing day was also attended by Sheikh Suhail bin Butti Al Maktoum, President of the UAE School and University Sports Federation; Sheikh Dr. Saqer bin Salman Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain School and Collegiate Athletic Association; Hamad Abdullah Al Hamad, President of the Kuwait School Sports & Higher Education Federation; and Hasnae El Ayoubi, Executive Director of the International School Sport Federation. From the Qatari side, the event was attended by His Excellency Dr. Thani bin Abdulrahman Al Kuwari, Second Vice President of the Qatar Olympic Committee; His Excellency Jassim bin Rashid Al Buenain, Secretary General of the Qatar Olympic Committee; Dr. Ahmad Abdulla Al-Buenain, Chief Executive Officer of the Doha 2030 Asian Games Organizing Committee and the Director General of the Organizing Committee of the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027; Abdulla Al Nuaimi, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Aspire Zone Foundation and Abdulrahman Al Muftah, Executive Director of the School Olympic Program, along with a number of presidents of national sports federations. This year’s edition witnessed wide participation, with approximately 25,000 students from public and private schools competing across 21 sports, including football, basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, swimming, padel, fencing, table tennis, athletics, wrestling, taekwondo, shooting, karate, judo, boccia, chess, cricket, weightlifting, esports, rowing and the Mini Basketball World Cup.. The Schools Olympic Program was established in response to an initiative by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani with the Qatar Olympic Committee organizing the program in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, the Qatar School Sport Federation, and the Qatar Paralympic Committee. The Schools Olympic Program was first launched in the 2007–2008 season as a national initiative under the slogan “Sport and Health,” forming part of the legacy of the Doha 2006 Asian Games. The program aims to promote sports culture in schools, identify and develop young talent, and encourage healthy lifestyles among students. Related Story Source link