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Young Qatar riders delivered outstanding performances to secure first place in the CSICh-A Children Teams category on the second day of the FEI Group VII Finals at Al Shaqab’s Longines Outdoor Arena.The team comprising Abdul Aziz Jassim al-Thani, Mohammed Hamza al-Kuwari, Mohammed Faisal al-Marri and Abdulla Tamim al-Thani impressed throughout the round. Saudi Arabia finished second, while Kuwait secured third place to complete the podium.In the CSJ-A Junior Teams category, the UAE claimed first place, followed by Egypt in second and Saudi Arabia in third. Closing the day, the Young Riders Teams category saw the UAE take top spot, Egypt finish second and Saudi Arabia secure third.Mohammed Jaber al-Khayarin, Equine Education Director at Al Shaqab, said: “The second day reaffirmed the strength of Group VII’s emerging athletes and the importance of hosting these finals in Qatar for the first time. The level of competition continues to rise, and the performances we witness each day reflect the commitment, discipline, and ambition of these young riders. We look forward to a strong final day that will crown the champions of this historic edition.”The Finals conclude today, with rounds across all categories set to determine the 2025 Group VII champions. Source link
FROM LEFT: Mongolia’s Ariunbold Enkhtaivan (silver medallist), Russia’s Ayub Bliev (gold), Georgia’s Giorgi Sardalashvili (bronze ) and Turkiye’s Salih Yildiz (bronze) stand on the podium during…
A computer-generated image of the interior of a new 100,000-seat stadium proposed for Manchester United at Old Trafford. England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have submitted a joint bid to host the Women’s World Cup in 2035 in what the Home Nations described as the largest single-sport event ever staged in the UK and the first World Cup there since 1966.The bid outlines plans for 22 stadiums across 16 host cities, including 16 venues in England, three in Wales, two in Scotland and one in Northern Ireland.The four nations are sole bidders after FIFA President Gianni Infantino said in April the UK was the “one valid bid” for the finals. The vote on hosts for the 2031 and ’35 World Cups will be made at the FIFA Congress in Vancouver on April 30.The tournament will involve 104 matches contested by 48 teams over 39 days, with 48 team base camp training sites, 82 venue-specific training sites and 32 fan-festival sites.The four federations said that with 63 million people living within two hours of a proposed venue, it would be the most accessible World Cup tournament ever. England’s men won the World Cup for the first and so far only time when the country hosted the finals in 1966.Prime Minister Keir Starmer backed the bid, calling it a chance to build on the success of England’s women’s team, who are back-to-back European champions, and inspire the next generation.“Our bid to host the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup shows the UK’s passion for football,” he said.“The Lionesses’ success has inspired girls across our country, and we’ll build on that momentum by welcoming millions of football fans from around the world to a tournament that will benefit communities and businesses in host cities up and down the UK.”Organisers project 4.5 million ticket sales and a global TV audience of 3.5 billion.“We are proud of the growth that we’ve driven in recent years across the women’s and girls’ game, but there is still so much more growth to come, and this event will play a key role in helping us deliver that,” the four federations said in a statement.“Working together with FIFA, a Women’s World Cup in the UK has the power to turbocharge the women’s and girls’ game both in the UK and globally.” The football federations of the United States, Mexico, Costa Rica and Jamaica announced last month a joint bid to host the 2031 Women’s World Cup, the first edition of the tournament to feature 48 teams. If successful, it would be the first Women’s World Cup staged across four countries. Brazil are set to host the 2027 global women’s tournament.Manchester United, in collaboration with Trafford Council, hope to be among the 16 host stadiums in England, saying they aim to have their new Old Trafford ground completed in time.“Our ambition is to build a new 100,000 seater stadium fit to host the biggest international football games,” United’s Chief Operating Officer Collette Roche said.“We also want to be a leader in the growth of women’s football, in our own neighbourhood and around the world.”Some of the other proposed stadiums are Everton’s Hill Dickinson ground (Liverpool), St James’ Park (Newcastle), the Racecourse Ground (Wrexham) and London’s Emirates Stadium, Selhurst Park, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Wembley Stadium and a potential new Chelsea stadium. Source link
Lusail International Circuit (LIC) set the tone for an electrifying weekend as the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix kicked off yesterday. With an action-packed schedule featuring practice sessions, Sprint qualifying, and a host of off-track activities, fans of all ages filled the grandstands throughout the day. The interactive Fan Zone was buzzing with activity as attendees explored food stalls, games, experiences, and merchandise, creating a lively and unforgettable atmosphere. Fans also had the chance to meet drivers and team managers during the Fan Forum, where exclusive merchandise was distributed – offering attendees an once-in-a-lifetime experience. Adding to the race weekend experience, Paddock Club guests enjoyed an exclusive Pit Lane Walk, gaining unparalleled access to team garages and behind-the-scenes action. The excitement continued with a Paddock Club Track Tour, providing a guided lap of the circuit and unique insights into the challenges drivers face on track. Off-track entertainment included a soulful performance by British singer Seal at the Lusail Live Stage, further delighting fans. Today promises even more thrills with the Sprint race, highlighting Qatar as one of only six venues selected by F1 to host this high-octane format in 2025. The 100km sprint race, which requires no mandatory pit stops, is expected to deliver intense wheel-to-wheel action under the lights.Circuit gates open at 1:30pm today. Complimentary Metro passes can be redeemed by the Ticket holders at the Goldclub office at any Doha Metro station or selected Lusail Tram stations. The Doha Metro will operate extended hours from 5am to 1:30am, with shuttle services running from Lusail QNB Station to the circuit. Source link
A cotton candy seller walks past a billboard featuring potential sporting events in Ahmedabad. The Indian city of Ahmedabad will stage the 2030 multi-sport Commonwealth Games,…
3dbdf324-7c9a-4ecb-b917-f9db99af47f4 Qatar is set to host the AGCFF U-23 Gulf Cup Qatar 2025 from Dec 4-16, bringing together young football talents in one of the most important age-group tournaments in the region.This is the first time that the competition is being held under the auspices of the Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation (AGCFF).“The U-23 Gulf Cup is reflective of our strong commitment to nurturing young, emerging football talents in the region, and fostering competitiveness in this age group.This is a pivotal stage for young players to make their transition to senior teams, and we encourage fans to show their support for these future stars in the making,” said Jassim Sultan al-Rumaihi, AGCFF Secretary-General.The tournament will feature eight teams, divided into two groups. Hosts Qatar will lead Group A, and will be joined by Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Iraq will lead Group B, and will play alongside the UAE, Oman, and Yemen.The group stage will see a total of 14 matches played across two state-of-the-art pitches at Aspire Zone, that has most recently served as a venue for a historic edition of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025.The group stage is designed as a non-ticketed event, welcoming fans from the region to enjoy the football action.The tournament will get underway on December 4 at Aspire Zone, 2:45pm, when Iraq face Yemen. Hosts Qatar will play their first match, one day later, on December 5, 2:45pm, against Kuwait.The Final will take place on December 16 at the iconic Stadium 974, the first fully demountable covered football stadium in FIFA World Cup history that hosted matches during the historic tournament in 2022. Tickets for the Final will be available in the coming days.Both tournament venues are accessible, ensuring a barrier-free experience for disabled fans.The AGCFF U-23 Gulf Cup Qatar 2025 is part of an exciting football season in Qatar, which includes the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 taking place from 1-18 December, as well as the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Qatar 2025, taking place on December 10, 13 and 17, reflecting Qatar’s capabilities in hosting world-class mega-sporting events at the same time.For all information related to the AGCFF U-17 Gulf Cup Qatar 2025, follow @AGCFF on all major social media platforms. Source link
Contrary to popular lore, what happens in Las Vegas most definitely does not stay in Vegas as far as Formula One is concerned.The aftershock of Sunday’s double disqualification in Nevada hangs over champions McLaren ahead of a sprint weekend at the Lusail International Circuit in Qatar that could hand Lando Norris his first Formula One crown – or erode his lead.The Briton is 24 points clear of Australian teammate Oscar Piastri and Red Bull’s reigning champion Max Verstappen with two rounds remaining – a total of 58 points to be won and all to play for. After Sunday, there will be just 25 on offer.Norris and Piastri finished second and fourth respectively in Las Vegas but, due to the under-car plank and rear skids wearing too thin, lost their points in a development that blew the title battle wide open.”During the race, both cars experienced unexpected, high levels of porpoising (bouncing) not seen in the practice sessions, which led to excessive contact with the ground,” team boss Andrea Stella explained on Sunday night. “The breach was unintentional, there was no deliberate attempt to circumvent the regulations, and mitigating circumstances also existed.”The thinner the plank, the closer to the ground the car rides and the faster it goes. The open and unanswered question, as the circus prepares for the second part of a final triple header, is how much McLaren’s performance might now be affected over the season-ending weekends in the Middle East.Rivals, and particularly Red Bull who have Verstappen chasing a fifth title in a row after winning in Las Vegas, will be keeping a very close eye on developments. Qatar and Abu Dhabi should play to McLaren’s strengths – Piastri won last year’s sprint while Norris set the fastest race lap — but will they have to play safe and run a higher setting than usual, giving away some aerodynamic advantage?Verstappen also has a great record in Qatar as the only driver to win twice there, the Dutchman clinching his third title in 2023 after the Saturday sprint, which was also won by Piastri.He won last year, with Norris demoted from second to 10th after collecting a 10 second stop/go penalty for speeding during yellow warning flags. “Just trying to enjoy, have a good time, and when you can win, you try to win,” Verstappen said of his approach after Sunday’s success.George Russell put Mercedes on pole at the Lusail circuit last year, after Verstappen was demoted one place for driving unnecessarily slowly, and will be one to watch along with teammate Kimi Antonelli. Mercedes are solidly second in the constructors’ championship, 40 points clear of Red Bull and 53 ahead of Ferrari, but nothing is certain.”We have the added challenge of the sprint format this weekend and an imposed usage limit on the tyres too,” said principal Toto Wolff. “Making a solid start in FP1 (practice), and having a good base to build from, will be key. We expect our competitors to be quick; warm conditions and high-speed corners haven’t been our strength this year.”Pirelli has imposed a maximum of 25 laps per set of tyres for Sunday’s race, following analysis of wear from 2024 and after similar limits in 2023.That will mean at least two pitstops per driver and also produce a faster pace – which could subject the plank to more punishment and reduce the need for tyre management, another McLaren strength.McLaren also have two drivers to manage while Verstappen is his team’s sole focus, will get priority in pitstops and – when it comes to championships – has been there before and will be laser focused. Related Story Source link
Comoros, Oman, Bahrain and Sudan advanced in dramatic fashion on the final day of FIFA Arab Cup qualifiers in Qatar Wednesday. Comoros rallied from two goals down to edge Yemen on penalties, while Oman overcame 201st-ranked Somalia in a tense shootout. Elsewhere, Bahrain narrowly defeated Djibouti, and Sudan secured a hard-fought win over Lebanon despite playing much of the match with ten men. The tournament proper will start from December 1, with hosts Qatar taking Palestine, while Tunisia face Syria on the opening day.Oman 0-0 Somalia (4-1 Penalty Shootout)Oman have brushed off the disappointment of narrowly failing to secure a FIFA World Cup slot in October’s fourth round of AFC qualifiers by downing Somalia to reach the Arab Cup group stage.In front of a lively crowd at Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium, Oman’s Nasser al-Rawahi had the best of the limited early chances, seeing a first-half effort well blocked and then flashing a shot across the face of the Somalia goal early in the second term.Somalia entered the clash in a modest vein of form but came within inches of breaking the deadlock as captain Abdulsamed Abdullahi forced Ibrahim al-Mukhaini into a smart save as the hour approached.That was the end of the clear-cut chances as the contest went straight to penalties, where both teams opted to make a goalkeeper change just as regulation time expired.It was Oman’s Ibrahim al-Rajhi who played a starring role, saving the first and third spot-kicks and then watching on as Mohammed al-Ghafri converted the fourth to secure his nation a place in Group B alongside Morocco, Saudi Arabia and either Comoros or Yemen.Bahrain 1-0 DjiboutiBahrain secured their spot in Group D with a narrow victory over Djibouti at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium.They hit the front shortly before half-time when Mohamed Marhoon sent a low cross into the area which looked like a simple gather for Mouktar Youssouf, but he fumbled the ball into the path of Mohamed al-Romaihi to tap in. Djibouti’s task was then made all the more difficult just seven minutes later as Ahmed Zakaria saw red for an off-the-ball elbow on Mahdi Abduljabbar.The Bahrainis came closest to doubling their lead with 15 minutes to go when Komail Al-Aswad crossed for al-Romaihi, but Youssouf redeemed himself with a fine diving save.Dragan Talajic’s side will now head into Group D of the final tournament alongside Algeria, Iraq and one of Sudan or Lebanon.Sudan 2-1 LebanonSudan overcame incredible odds to secure an epic comeback victory over Lebanon and qualify for the Arab Cup group stage.The Falcons of Jediane, who went into the fixture having not won in their previous five outings, were reduced to ten men midway through the first half when frontman John Mano was sent off after picking up two quick yellow cards. Lebanon immediately capitalised on their advantage as Mohamad Safwan swung in a dangerous cross which Khalil Khamis converted from close range.Sudan refused to give up, however, and equalised just before the break when a powerful strike by Mustafa Karshoum was deflected by Lebanon captain Mohamad Haidar into his own net. Early in the second half, Sudan had two excellent chances blocked on the line and then took a deserved lead when Yaser Jobak beat Lebanon goalkeeper Mostafa Matar at the near post with a low drive into the net.Sudan goalkeeper then Monged Elneel pulled off a brilliant save in stoppage time from an Ali Kassas header to seal the improbable victory.Comoros 4-4 Yemen (4-2 Penalty Shootout)Comoros pulled off a comeback for the ages to defeat Yemen on penalties and advance to the group stage of the Arab Cup.It was a dream start for Yemen, as they broke the deadlock when Comoros goalkeeper Adel Anzimati failed to cleanly catch a corner kick and Harwan Alzuabidi pounced on the bobble to head home. But Comoros equalised when Zaid Amir was clipped in the area by Rami Alwasmani, and Housseine Zakouani tucked away the penalty.Yemen regained the lead in style, as Abdulwasea Almatari whipped in a cross that connected with the foot of Nasser Algahwashi for the goal. Almatari would then add a third for Yemen right before intermission by polishing off a counter-attack. Comoros pulled to within one when Zainou-Dine Mohamed’s shot deflected off Osamah Anbar and caromed into net. However, they were punished by a defensive miscue, allowing Almatari to slip in and tally his second of the night.Facing a two-goal deficit with just minutes remaining, Comoros surged late, with Amir as the hero. First, he calmly converted a penalty after a handball, and then equalised in dramatic fashion by running onto a deflected header from a Yemen defender to score and force penalties. From the spot, Anzimati was decisive in making two saves, while Comoros converted all four of their attempts, the winning one fittingly by Amir, to clinch victory. Related Story Source link
His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC), paid an inspection visit to the Athletics Training Center Project at Aspire Academy for Sports Excellence.The project, which is being implemented through an integrated partnership between Aspire Academy, the Qatar Athletics Federation and Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital – aims to develop Qatari athletics and elevate it to new levels.During the visit, Sheikh Joaan toured the project’s administrative building and reviewed the ongoing work and coordination between the three entities in training, medical preparation, and administrative support. The collaboration is designed to enhance athletes’ performance and support their aspirations for a successful season.He also met with members of the national athletics team, reviewed their training programs, and encouraged them to give their best and prepare thoroughly for upcoming competitions. His Excellency reaffirmed the Qatar Olympic Committee’s commitment to providing the best development environment for athletes.Accompanying the QOC President on the visit were high jump legend Mutaz Barshim, Ivan Bravo, Director General of Aspire Academy; Sheikh Khalifa bin Khalid al-Thani, Director of the QOC Sports Sector, Mohammed Issa al-Fadala, President of the Qatar Athletics Federation; as well as several members of the federation’s board of directors. Related Story Source link
The Qatar national football team is set to compete in the 11th edition of the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025, which kicks off next Monday in Doha, with strong ambitions to claim their first-ever title.Qatar will open its campaign against Palestine in early December at Al Bayt Stadium, in Group A, which also includes Tunisia and Syria. The team aims for a strong start to pave the way for a deep run in the tournament.Despite participating in three previous editions, Qatar has never won the Arab Cup. Their best result came in 1998 when they finished as runners-up on home soil. They secured third place in the 2021 edition, also held in Doha, and finished fourth in their debut appearance in 1985 in Saudi Arabia.The team is banking on key advantages, notably home support and familiar conditions, which are expected to provide a significant morale boost in what promises to be a fiercely contested tournament, given the high level of preparedness and ambition among Arab teams.Qatari fans have long played a pivotal role in the national team’s recent successes, most notably during the 2023 AFC Asian Cup in Doha. The passionate home crowd was instrumental in motivating the players through challenging knockout rounds, including a penalty shootout win over Uzbekistan in the quarterfinals, a 3-2 victory against Iran in the semifinals, and a triumphant 3-1 win over Jordan in the final to retain the continental title.Qatar enters the Arab Cup on a high note, having recently secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the US, Mexico, and Canada. They topped Group A in the fourth round of qualifiers held in Doha, following a goalless draw with Oman and a 2-1 win over the UAE.The team’s current roster is a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents. Leading the charge is star forward Akram Afif, who played a decisive role in the 2023 Asian Cup, contributing to 11 of Qatar’s 14 goals, scoring eight and assisting three, earning both the tournament’s Golden Boot and Best Player awards. He also assisted both goals in the crucial World Cup qualifying win over the UAE.Other key players include Assim Madibo and Abdelaziz Hatem, both instrumental in Qatar’s 2019 and 2023 Asian Cup victories, along with Ahmed Fathi, Tarek Salman, Jassem Gaber, and standout goalkeeper Meshaal Barsham.Head coach Julen Lopetegui has opted to inject fresh energy into the squad by calling up several young players who have impressed in the domestic league this season, such as Khaled Ali Bin Sabaa, Ayoub Al Alawi, Al Hashimi Al Hussain, and Mohammed Khaled.This aligns with his vision of rejuvenating the team in preparation for the 2026 World Cup, while still relying on experienced figures like Ahmed Fathi, Marquez Lopez, Mohammed Muntari, and Edmilson Junior. The Qatar national football team’s squad for the upcoming FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 features several notable absences, most prominently all-time top scorer Almoez Ali, who recently underwent surgery for an injury sustained early in the season.The injury has sidelined him from both club duties with Al Duhail and national team appearances. Additionally, Ahmed Al Rawi and Ahmed Al Janahi will also miss the tournament due to injuries.As part of the renewal strategy led by Spanish head coach Julen Lopetegui, several veteran players who have featured prominently in recent years, such as Boualem Khoukhi, Pedro Miguel, and Karim Boudiaf, were not called up. However, the door remains open for their return if needed in the future.Lopetegui’s leadership has been pivotal in stabilizing the team after a disappointing third round in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.Under his guidance, Qatar secured qualification through the playoff stage, reigniting the form of many key players. This resurgence has fueled optimism that the team will continue its upward trajectory during the Arab Cup, building momentum ahead of the World Cup.Qatar faces a challenging path in the Arab Cup, with several high-caliber Arab teams in contention. Six nations, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, and Morocco, have already qualified for the World Cup, with three expected to field their first-choice squads.Other strong contenders include Iraq, currently in the intercontinental playoff, and teams like Oman, Kuwait, the UAE, and Palestine, who performed admirably in qualifiers despite not securing a World Cup berth. To reach the podium, Qatar will need to be at its technical peak.Former national team player Meshal Abdullah told Qatar News Agency (QNA) that Qatar is among the top contenders for the 2025 Arab Cup title, citing their strong performances in the Asian playoff matches against Oman and the UAE.He noted that the team has regained its form after a period of inconsistency during the third round of qualifiers.Abdullah praised Lopetegui’s impact since taking charge in May, particularly his decision to introduce new faces who have strengthened key positions and improved overall performance. He highlighted the team’s balanced approach between defense and attack, a significant improvement from earlier stages when Qatar conceded heavily.This balance, he said, positions the team well for a strong showing in the Arab Cup, which also serves as a vital preparatory stage for the 2026 World Cup.Former national team player Raed Yaqoub echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the Arab Cup as a stepping stone toward the World Cup.He stressed, however, that this does not diminish the team’s ambition to win its first Arab title, especially given the recent successes of a golden generation that secured back-to-back AFC Asian Cup titles in 2019 and 2023, and qualified for the 2026 World Cup through the qualifiers for the first time, having previously entered the 2022 edition as hosts.Yaqoub pointed to the team’s improved form during the fourth round of Asian qualifiers as a strong indicator of their potential to win the Arab Cup.He praised the current squad selection as the best available, despite the absence of key players like Almoez Ali, Ahmed Al Janahi, and Ahmed Al Rawi, expressing confidence in the team’s ability to make a strong impact, especially with the anticipated enthusiastic support from home fans. 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