Doha Opens a New Chapter in Basketball with the Launch of the First Mini World Cup in the Middle East and North Africa

DOHA  – The Qatari capital witnessed a unique sporting milestone with the launch of the Mini World Cup for the 2025–2026 season on Wednesday, held at the Qatar Basketball Federation courts. The tournament marks the first-ever edition of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa, organized under the supervision of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), in collaboration with the Qatar Basketball Federation and the Qatar School Sports Association.Designed as a unique competitive and educational experience, the event mirrors the excitement and  energy of the highly anticipated FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027, offering young players a platform to engage with the sport at a global standard.The opening ceremony was attended by Sheikh Khalifa bin Khalid Al Thani, Director of Sports Sector at the Qatar Olympic Committee and President of the Qatar School Sports Association; Mr. Mohammed Saad Al-Meghaiseeb, Director General of the Organizing Committee of the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027 and President of the Qatar Basketball Federation; Mr. Khalil Ibrahim Al-Jaber, Executive Director of the Qatar Olympic Academy, Mr. Saadoun Sabah Al-Kuwari, Executive Director of the Sports Department at the Organizing Committee of the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027, Mr. Abdulrahman Al-Muftah, Executive Director of the School Olympic Program.Also present were senior officials from both organizing bodies, members of the media, and a large student audience who brought enthusiasm and vibrant energy to the launch.A total of 32 secondary schools from across Qatar are taking part in the championship, competing under their official names: 1 - American Academy School, 2. Alpha Cambridge School, 3. Al Khor International School – British Curriculum, 4. Al Khor International School – CBSE, 5. Institute for Religious Studies Preparatory and Secondary School for Boys, 6. Al Andalus Private School, 7. Beverly Hills International School, 8. Beta Cambridge School, 9. Belgravia High School, 10. DPS Modern Indian School, 11. Edison Global Academy – Lusail, 12. GEMS American Academy – Qatar, 13. Global Academy  International – Al Waab Branch, 14. Global Academy  International – Muaither Branch, 15. Harvard American School, 16. Hassan Bin Thabit Independent Secondary School for Boys, 17. Ibn Taymiyyah Independent Secondary School for Boys, 18. The Jordanian School, 19. Lycée Français Bonaparte – Doha, 20. Loyola International School, 21. The Lebanese School, 22. The Ideal Indian School – Abu Hamour Branch, 23. Monarch International School (DPS), 24. Newton International Academy, 25. Philippine International School – Qatar, 26. Podar Pearl School, 27. Qatar-Finland International School, 28. Rajagiri Public School, 29. Stafford Sri Lankan School – Doha, 30. Cambridge School, 31. Next Generation Private School – Al Wakrah, and 32. Birla Public School.The opening day saw four exciting matches. The Lebanese School claimed a commanding 57–26 victory over Beta Cambridge School, while Al Andalus Private School prevailed 52–29 against Loyola International School. The Philippine International School showcased its superiority with a 58–32 win over Birla Public School, and Cambridge School rounded off the day with a 43–16 triumph over Ibn Taymiyyah Independent Secondary School for Boys.The first phase of the tournament runs from November to March as part of the preliminary stage, followed by knockout rounds in April and the final match in May, coinciding with the Qatar Olympic School Program activities. Across 11 weeks, the competition will feature 92 matches with the participation of all 32 schools.The Mini World Cup forms an integral part of the Schools Olympic Program for the 2025–2026 and 2026–2027 seasons, serving as a platform that merges athletic excellence with educational development. In the first edition, schools compete under their official names, while in the second round, each will represent one of the nations qualified for the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027.This pioneering initiative aims to bridge sports and education through an inspiring national experience that connects students with one of the world’s premier sporting events. The tournament provides young players with the opportunity to compete, collaborate, and grow, while fostering values of teamwork, volunteerism, and community engagement.Complementary interactive activities will also allow students and schools to explore the journey of preparing for the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027, deepening their appreciation for the sport and reinforcing Qatar’s vision of sustainable sporting and cultural legacy.FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis said: “We’re excited to bring together 32 secondary schools in a unique format that mirrors our flagship event, giving young players a unique opportunity to experience competitive basketball at its best.“This initiative is a powerful example of how sport can be used to foster education, inclusion, and community development.“The Mini World Cup extends far beyond the competition on the court - it’s an investment in the future of grassroots basketball and a testament to Qatar’s commitment to nurturing talent and promoting healthy lifestyles among youth.”On this occasion, Mohammed Saad Al-Meghaiseeb, Director General of the Organizing Committee of the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027 and President of the Qatar Basketball Federation, said : “Hosting the first-ever Mini World Cup in the Middle East and North Africa represents a pioneering step that reflects Qatar’s commitment to empowering youth and strengthening their presence in the global sports arena. This initiative opens new horizons for young players to gain valuable experience, combining athletic excitement with educational purpose, helping to refine their skills and nurture a spirit of excellence and teamwork.”He added: “This championship embodies Qatar’s vision to elevate sports awareness among students and connect them with the national and global basketball heritage. It also seeks to share this inspiring experience with nations that cherish sport and peace around the world, reaffirming the role of sports as a bridge for cultural understanding and a universal message that inspires future generations.”For his part, Sheikh Khalifa bin Khalid Al Thani, Director of Sports Sector at the Qatar Olympic Committee and President of the Qatar School Sports Association; emphasized: “The goals of the Mini World Cup align perfectly with the mission of the Olympic School Program promoting physical activity and well-being, instilling Olympic values, discovering sporting talents, fostering comprehensive education, expanding community participation, and strengthening ties with the global Olympic movement.”He concluded: “We are confident that this championship will achieve outstanding success both organizationally and technically, leaving behind a lasting sporting legacy for the students participating in this edition, when they proudly wear the jerseys of the national teams that qualify for the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027.” 

Team Qatar to face upbeat South Africa in must-win tie on Thursday

DOHA - Hosts Qatar will take on South Africa in their second Group A match looking to bounce back in the FIFA U-17 World Cup at Aspire Zone Competition Complex’s Mansour Muftah Pitch on Thursday.Qatar went down fighting against Italy 0-1 in their opening match. The home team could take solace from their spirit and determination in their narrow defeat. However, they will face an upbeat South African side – currently leading the group – who sunk Bolivia 3-1 despite playing with 10-man.Qatar coach Alvaro Mejia praised his team’s performance despite the defeat to Italy. “It was a difficult match against one of the top sides in the tournament. We will look to make amends in our next match against South Africa,” said Qatar coach Mejia.Mejia declared the squad’s collective hunger to reward their vibrant support when they return to action against South Africa. “Here in Qatar, everyone loves football,” he said. “They love to be part of it. The atmosphere was beautiful. It was colourful all around. For the people to watch players at this age – who very soon are going to be on TV and will be stars – it’s something amazing.“I am happy with how we performed against one of the strongest teams. The idea was to go out and compete. We competed. I am proud of the players and now we are going to come back against another strong team in South Africa. Let’s try to give the best of ourselves for all the people who are coming here to support. We have to push ourselves to the limits.”Meanwhile, Italy will meet Bolivia in other Group A match. Bolivia will be determined to record a first tournament point since 1987 after losing their opening match while Italy will be out to sustain their momentum after a fine team display against Qatar. 

Team Qatar Shows Fighting Spirit in Islamic Solidarity Games Opener

Riyadh – Team Qatar began their campaign  at the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games  Riyadh 2025 with a determined performance against Turkey in the men’s volleyball competition.Despite a strong effort and several bright moments, team Qatar fell to Turkey 3–1 in a competitive four-set match.Turkey took the first set 25–20, before Qatar responded brilliantly to win the second 25–18. However, the Turkish side regained control in the next two sets, 25–16 and 25–20, to secure the victory.Qatar’s players showed great teamwork, energy, and resilience, leaving a positive impression in their opening match. They will now look to bounce back stronger in their next game.The team will return to the court on Thursday to face Iran at 7:00 PM, in what promises to be another exciting and challenging encounter. 

Sheikh Joaan attends IOC Olympism365 Commission Meeting

Lausanne: H.E. Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC), attended the IOC Olympism365 Commission meeting held on Wednesday in Lausanne, Switzerland.This year’s meetings form part of the broader “Fit for the Future” consultations launched by the IOC President, bringing together voices from across the Olympic Movement to explore opportunities and challenges through five main themes: Athletes, Olympic Games, Olympic Movement, Better World Through Sport, and Reach, Engagement and Revenue Generation.On Tuesday, H.E. Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, attended the Olympic Education Commission, while H.E. Jassim Rashid Al Buenain, Secretary-General of the QOC, took part in the Olympic Programme Commission. Their participation reflected Qatar’s continued engagement across various areas of the Olympic Movement.Qatar’s presence throughout the IOC Commissions Week reflects its commitment to supporting the Olympic Movement’s vision and advancing the role of sport as a catalyst for development, inclusion, and positive social change.

Team Qatar Archers claim four medals at West Asian Championship in Doha

Doha – Team Qatar’s archers captured four medals – including two golds and two silvers – on the final day of the 2nd West Asian Archery Championship, which concluded yesterday at the Lusail Shooting Range Complex. The four-day event brought together around 100 male and female archers representing nine countries.The championship featured competitions in Olympic recurve and compound bow categories, across individual, team, and mixed team events.The final day was attended by Jassim Al-Sulaiti, Vice President of the Championship’s Organizing Committee, Dr. Saeed Musbah Al-Kaabi, Vice President of the West Asian Archery Federation, Thomas Han, Vice President of the World Archery Federation, Saad Al-Mashhadani, Secretary-General of the Arab Archery Federation, and Abdulrahman Al-Shadoukhi, Secretary-General of the West Asian Federation.In the women’s individual compound event, Qatar’s Aisha Al-Saai won the gold medal, while the UAE’s Amina Al-Owaidi claimed silver and Syria’s Yolanda Galoul took bronze.In the men’s individual compound, Saudi Arabia’s Ali Al-Baqmi secured gold, Kuwait’s Abdullah Malallah earned silver, and Saudi’s Bilal Al-Owaidi won bronze.In the women’s individual Olympic recurve, Qatar’s Maha Abdulhai took gold, Kuwait’s Suad Al-Bahar earned silver, and Saudi Arabia’s Aya Filimban claimed bronze.In the men’s individual recurve, Saudi Arabia’s Abdulrahman Musa won gold, Mansour Alawi of Saudi Arabia took silver, and Qatar’s Ahmed Al-Sada secured bronze.In the women’s compound team event, the UAE team (Amina Al-Owaidi, Mitha Al-Nuaimi, and Jumana Al-Najjar) captured gold, while the Saudi team (Nouf Al-Malik, Shahrazad Loukanish, and Raghad Kaabi) earned silver.In the men’s compound team event, Saudi Arabia (Abdullah Al-Abdullatif, Bilal Al-Owaidi, and Ali Al-Baqmi) won gold, Iraq (Abdullah Al-Shaibani, Shakir Khalaf, and Waleed Hamid) took silver, and the UAE (Yousef Al-Hosani, Shehab Al-Saadi, and Mohammed bin Amr) claimed bronze.In the compound mixed team event, Saudi Arabia (Raghad Kaabi and Ali Al-Baqmi) earned gold, the UAE (Amina Al-Owaidi and Mohammed bin Amr) took silver, and Kuwait (Hanan Al-Mayas and Abdullah Malallah) secured bronze.In the women’s Olympic recurve team event, Saudi Arabia (Shaden Al-Marshoud, Leena Al-Munjam, and Aya Filimban) captured gold, Kuwait (Noor Al-Sharhan, Reem Al-Naqeeb, and Suad Al-Bahar) took silver, and the UAE (Aisha Jassim Al-Ali, Fatima Al-Baloushi, and Samia Odenaeva) won bronze.In the men’s Olympic recurve team event, the UAE (Maiteeb Seb Sankar, Ali Ranjbari, and Mansour Obeid) claimed gold, while Saudi Arabia (Abdulaziz Al-Kurbi, Abdulrahman Musa, and Mansour Alawi) earned silver.Finally, in the mixed team recurve event, the UAE (Maiteeb Seb Sankar and Samia Odenaeva) won gold, Saudi Arabia (Aya Filimban and Abdulrahman Musa) took silver, and Qatar (Maha Abdulhai and Ahmed Al-Sada) secured bronze.Team Qatar’s lineup featured 12 archers: Ahmed Al-Sada, Suleiman Bu Taima, Maha Abdulhai, Reem Al-Saai, Sharifa Al-Obaidly, Amina Al-Jarman, Farhan Abdurrahbah, Abdulaziz Al-Abadi, Hamad Al-Yafie, Omar Laram, Munira Al-Adsani, and Aisha Al-Saai. 

Qatar Volleyball Team to face Turkey in opening match of Islamic Solidarity Games

Riyadh:  Team Qatar will kick off its campaign at the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games “Riyadh 2025” tomorrow, with a strong opening clash against Turkey at 1:00 p.m. in the first round of the volleyball competition.The Games, hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from November 7 to 27, will bring together more than 3,000 athletes representing 57 countries, competing in 25 sports across five main venues in the capital, Riyadh. The opening ceremony will take place at Al-Janadriyah Square next Friday.Team Qatar enters the tournament with high ambitions to compete for top positions, building on its experience and recent international performances. The squad features a talented lineup of players who have already made their mark in Asian competitions.Meanwhile, the Qatari delegation has arrived in Saudi Arabia, headed by Saeed Jumaa Al-Hitmi, Member of the Board of Directors of the Qatar Volleyball Association. The delegation also includes Ali Abdullah, Team Manager, Argentinian Head Coach Camilo Soto, and 12 players representing Team Qatar.