Sheikh Joaan attends IOC President’s Welcome Dinner in Milan

Milan: H.E. Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Olympic Council of Asia and President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, attended the welcome dinner hosted yesterday by Mrs. Kirsty Coventry, President of the International Olympic Committee, in the Italian city of Milan, on the sidelines of the 145th IOC Session.The session was held in the city of Milan and brought together presidents of national Olympic committees, members of the International Olympic Committee, and presidents of international sports federations.The dinner provided an opportunity to exchange views on a number of issues related to Olympic affairs, within the framework of the side meetings accompanying the IOC Session, which contribute to strengthening communication and coordination among sports leaders at the international level.The dinner was also attended by H.E. Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Qatar Foundation and a member of the IOC Education Commission. 

Qatar Winter Sports Committee Holds Ordinary General Assembly to Approve 2026 Program Plan

DOHA The Qatar Winter Sports Committee held its Ordinary General Assembly meeting on Sunday afternoon, 1 February 2026, at Al Zubarah Hall at the headquarters of the Qatar Olympic Committee.The meeting was chaired by Mr. Rashid Majed Al-Sulaiti, President of the Qatar Winter Sports Committee, and attended by Mr. Hassan Hisham Al-Habbabi, Secretary-General; Mr. Hamad Salah Al-Bakir, Assistant Secretary-General; Mr. Ahmed Ali Al-Jaber, Board Member; in addition to Mr. Khalifa Jabr Al-Nuaimi, representative of the Sports Affairs Department at the Qatar Olympic Committee.The Assembly reviewed and discussed the approved agenda items, during which the financial report was formally endorsed following a comprehensive review of the accounts and approved budgets for 2025.The meeting also approved the Committee’s strategic plans and programs for 2026, including preparations, activities, and upcoming initiatives related to participation in championships and sporting events—efforts aimed at strengthening the presence of Qatari winter sports on both the regional and international stages.In addition, the Assembly approved the membership of former athlete Ms. Mubarakah Salem Al-Abdullah as a member of the General Assembly, in recognition of her experience and contribution to supporting the continued development of winter sports in Qatar. 

Philippine International School, GEMS American Academy, The Lebanese School, and Global Academy Secure Spots in Mini Basketball World Cup 2025–2026 Semifinals

DOHA – The quarterfinals of the Mini Basketball World Cup for the 2025–2026 season, held  Wednesday at the Qatar Basketball Federation courts, saw four school teams advance to the semifinals following highly competitive and thrilling matches.The Philippine International School booked its place in the semifinals with an 80–66 victory over Al Andalus Private School, while GEMS American Academy – Qatar secured its spot after narrowly defeating DPS Modern Indian School 57–52. The Lebanese School shone with a decisive 83–37 win over Edison Global Academy – Lusail, and Global Academy International – Muaither clinched the final semifinal berth following a hard-fought 69–67 victory against Lycée Français Bonaparte – Doha.The semifinals will take place on 11 February 2026, with the Philippine International School facing GEMS American Academy in the first semifinal, and the Lebanese School going up against Global Academy International – Muaither in the second. The winners will meet in the final on 30 April at Aspire Academy, coinciding with the closing of the schools Olympic program season.Reflecting on his team’s advancement, Adam Merrick, coach of GEMS American Academy – Qatar, expressed pride in the technical and skillful performance of his players during the quarterfinal match. He highlighted that their play reflected the team’s hard work, focus, and tactical discipline.Coach Merrick added that the team’s ambitions extend beyond simply reaching the semifinals, emphasizing their determination to continue their journey toward the final, fully prepared to face the next challenge with a winning mindset and a spirit of competition.The Mini Basketball World Cup represents a pioneering sports and educational experience, organized for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa under the supervision of FIBA, in collaboration with the Qatar Basketball Federation and the Qatar School Sports Federation. The championship follows an innovative competitive model inspired by the atmosphere of the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027.This tournament provides players, school administrators, schools, and coaches with a comprehensive experiential and practical opportunity that mirrors the structure of the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027."This tournament is part of the schools Olympic program for the 2025–2026 and 2026–2027 seasons, reflecting a comprehensive vision that combines high-level competition with educational and ethical values. It aims to cultivate a generation of sports-conscious students capable of carrying forward Qatar’s basketball legacy, while promoting sports as a bridge for human connection and fostering friendships across cultures. 

Qatar Gymnastics Federation holds its ordinary General Assembly

Doha – The Qatar Gymnastics Federation convened its Ordinary General Assembly on Wednesday evening, 4 February 2026, at its headquarters in Al Bidda Tower. The meeting reflected a positive and collaborative atmosphere, underscoring the Federation’s aspirations to further advance the sport in the years ahead.The meeting was chaired by Mr. Ali Al-Hitmi, President of the Federation, and attended by members of the Board of Directors, representatives of the Qatar Olympic Committee, and the Federation’s auditors.In his opening remarks, Mr. Al-Hitmi welcomed the participants and highlighted the importance of the annual General Assembly as a key forum for reviewing the current status of gymnastics and outlining future directions. He emphasized the value of transparent dialogue and constructive discussions in supporting the continued development of the sport in the State of Qatar.The Federation President commended the efforts of the Board, as well as the technical and administrative teams, in implementing the Federation’s strategy. He noted that the strategy focuses on expanding participation, developing emerging talents among male and female gymnasts, and preparing athletes to compete effectively across different gymnastics disciplines.During the meeting, the President and Board members congratulated His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani on his election as President of the Olympic Council of Asia, describing the achievement as a reflection of his longstanding contributions to sport and the growing stature of Qatari sport at continental and international levels.The General Assembly reviewed its agenda, confirming quorum, approving the minutes of the previous meeting, and ratifying new members. Discussions also covered the administrative and technical reports for the 2025–2026 season, the financial report for the 2025 fiscal year, and the approval of the Federation’s budget for the upcoming year in line with the Qatar Olympic Committee’s directives.The meeting reaffirmed the Qatar Gymnastics Federation’s commitment to good governance, transparency, and cooperation with relevant stakeholders, as part of its efforts to support the sustainable development of gymnastics and achieve its long-term objectives. 

Qatar Masters to begin on Thursday

Doha: A world-class field will take centre stage as the 29th edition of the Qatar Masters gets underway on Thursday at the Doha Golf Club, running through Sunday, 5–8 February. The tournament marks the midway point of the International Swing on the DP World Tour calendar.The Doha Golf Club, which has hosted the championship in 26 of its 28 editions, once again welcomes a strong international line-up. This year’s field is led by Race to Dubai Rankings leader Jayden Schaper, alongside his closest challenger, 2018 Masters champion Patrick Reed.Several in-form players will also be in contention for the Mother of Pearl Trophy, including Andy Sullivan, Julien Guerrier, Daniel Hillier and Nacho Elvira, as they look to build on their impressive starts to the season.The international contingent will be joined by three Qatari amateurs — Saleh Al Kaabi, Ali Al Shahrani and Daniil Sokolov — who will be aiming to make a strong impression on home soil.Speaking ahead of the tournament, Tom Phillips, Head of Middle East at the DP World Tour, highlighted the long-standing success of the event and the importance of local partnerships. He praised the continued cooperation with the Qatar Golf Association and the Qatar Olympic Committee, noting that their support has been central to the tournament’s sustained growth.Phillips also underlined key milestones surrounding this year’s edition, including the participation of seven former champions and three Race to Dubai winners this season. He added that three-time major champion Padraig Harrington is set to make his 500th DP World Tour appearance, marking a notable moment in the tournament’s history.This year’s course set-up is expected to present a fresh challenge, following upgrades to several tee complexes — notably at the first, sixth, eighth, 13th and 15th holes — enhancing flexibility, turf quality and visual definition. Sustainability remains a central focus, with course management relying on heat-tolerant turfgrasses, efficient irrigation systems and data-driven water usage suited to the desert environment.DP World Tour Senior Tournament Director Mikael Eriksson expressed confidence in both the conditions and the playing surface ahead of Thursday’s opening round, describing the course as being in exceptional condition and forecasting largely favourable weather throughout the week.Meanwhile, Qatar Golf Association General Secretary Fahad Nasser Al Naimi voiced optimism regarding the participation of the Qatari players, describing the Qatar Masters as a valuable opportunity for them to gain experience at the highest level. He also reaffirmed the tournament’s status as one of Qatar’s leading sporting events, highlighting the strength of the 144-player field assembled for this year’s championship. 

Orientation Session Highlights Volunteer Registration Process for the QOC Half Marathon 2026 via the Team Qatar Volunteer Platform

DOHA  – The Volunteers and Sustainability Committee of the Organizing Committee of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) Half Marathon 2026 organized an orientation session for race volunteers at Lusail Hall, at the QOC headquarters. The session brought together around 80 male and female volunteers, as part of the early organizational preparations for the second edition of the event.The session opened with a comprehensive presentation delivered by members of the Volunteers and Sustainability Committee, including Ms. Noora Al Ahbabi, Mr. Salman Balmahdi, Ms. Manwah Al Mannae, Mr. Ahmed Al Samini, Mr. Mohammed Al Zubairi, and Ms. Noor Loubani. The presentation outlined the core organizational and supervisory roles assigned to volunteers, such as managing and guiding participants, serving designated target groups, and fostering a motivating and supportive atmosphere among runners, in a manner that reflects the professional image of the event.The presentation also covered key operational procedures ahead of race day, including a field visit to the Lusail Boulevard route, collection of official volunteer apparel, and familiarization with race routes, distribution points, and service areas, scheduled for 8 February 2026. In addition, post-race arrangements were reviewed, including the provision of meals for volunteers and the distribution of participation certificates in recognition of their contributions.This orientation session follows the official launch of the Team Qatar Volunteer Platform by the Organizing Committee last Monday, during a press conference held at the Qatar Olympic Committee headquarters. The conference highlighted the latest organizational, technical, and administrative updates for the second edition of the race, which also includes short-distance races and Team Qatar Village activities dedicated to families and children. The event is scheduled to take place on 10 February 2026 in celebration of Qatar Sports Day.The Team Qatar Volunteer Platform is a comprehensive and sustainable digital system designed to manage volunteer registration, task allocation, and operational roles across a wide range of sporting events hosted by the State of Qatar. These include the QOC Half Marathon 2026, the 4th Gulf Games 2026, the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027, the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Cup 2029, and the Doha 2030 Asian Games. The platform aims to enhance sustainability through efficient volunteer management and the adoption of environmentally friendly practices, contributing to the success of events and elevating the overall experience for all participants.In this context, Ms. Maryam Al-Mejaba, Project Manager of the Team Qatar Volunteer Platform and Head of the Volunteers and Sustainability Committee of the Organizing Committee of the QOC Half Marathon 2026, emphasized that volunteers were selected in accordance with precise criteria aligned with the requirements of organizing major sporting events, ensuring a high level of readiness and operational efficiency.She added that volunteer participation in sporting events extends beyond organizational support, representing a comprehensive educational and human experience that enables volunteers to understand field operations, develop communication and teamwork skills, and build valuable social and professional networks that contribute to personal development and open promising future opportunities.Ms. Al-Mejaba also highlighted the fundamental value of volunteer work, noting that it equips volunteers with practical skills in problem-solving and crisis management, in addition to administrative, organizational, and social experience gained under the supervision of specialists, thereby strengthening a culture of community responsibility and institutional teamwork.Reflecting on her experience with the Team Qatar Volunteer Platform, volunteer Fatima Al Haddadi expressed her delight at participating in her first volunteer experience, affirming her enthusiasm to gain organizational and supervisory skills and to build inspiring friendships that open new horizons for a bright future.