Top Riders Crowned at the Grand Finale of HH The Father Amir Equestrian Prix

DOHA – Sheikh Thani bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Chairperson of the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), crowned the top three winners of the Grand Prix during the fourth round of the inaugural HH The Father Amir Equestrian Prix, which concluded on Saturday at Al Shaqab’s Longines Arena. The prestigious event drew a stellar lineup of the world’s leading riders, offering prize money exceeding €3.3 million.In the highlight five-star Grand Prix featuring jumps up to 160 cm with a jump off British rider Scott Brash claimed first place with a flawless time of 52.97 seconds. French competitor Mgane Moissonnier finished second, followed by Switzerland’s Nadja Peter Steiner in third.The final day featured a series of competitions across both the indoor and outdoor Longines arenas at Al Shaqab, a member of Qatar Foundation. The main outdoor arena hosted the three-star (150 cm) and five-star (160 cm) Grand Prix categories, while the indoor arena showcased the one-star 130 cm competition.In the five-star 150 cm category, British rider Harry Charles triumphed with a time of 32.02 seconds. Portugal’s Duarte Seabra secured second place, and Germany’s Philipp Weishaupt finished third.Saudi Arabia’s Abdullah Al Sharbatly won the three-star 150 cm Grand Prix following a thrilling jump-off in 34.73 seconds, edging out Germany’s Janne Friederike Zimmermann in second and Philipp Weishaupt in third.Italy’s Emanuele Gaudiano claimed victory in the three-star 140 cm category with a time of 54.45 seconds, followed by American Kristin Vanderveen in second and Brazil’s Marlon Modolo in third. In the three-star 130 cm class, South Africa’s Oliver Lazarus took first place, Egypt’s Abdullah Haitham came second, and Qatar’s Ghanem Nasser Al Qadi secured third.In the Star category, Qatari rider Ali Omar Al Ansari triumphed at 130 cm, ahead of Egyptian Mohamed Farid and Qatari Mohammed Yousef Al Jaber. Estonia’s Meriel Isok also secured first place in the Star class at 120 cm. In the Junior 110 cm category, Hala Al Rashid took top honors, followed by Qatari Ali Khalid Al Obaidli in second. In the local 100 cm class, Al Qaqa’a bin Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani claimed victory.Khalifa Al Attiyah, Executive Director of the Doha Equestrian Tour, highlighted the championship’s remarkable success in its first edition, noting that it marked a strong start to the 2026 Doha Equestrian Tour, featuring over 400 riders from 38 countries across four rounds filled with competition and excitement.He emphasized that this achievement resulted from meticulous organizational planning and strong collaboration among key stakeholders in Qatar and internationally. The championship included four international rounds in the one-star and five-star categories, alongside rounds for juniors and youth, as well as qualifiers for the finals of the seventh group of the International Equestrian Federation. 

8th Katara Boxing Championship Concludes Successfully in Doha

DOHA – The 8th Katara Boxing Championship concluded successfully in Doha on Saturday after three exciting days of competition, attracting a large and enthusiastic crowd.Organized by the Qatar Boxing and Wrestling Federation (QBWF), the championship featured both amateur and professional bouts. The amateur competitions were held during the first two days and included around 65 boxers from three age groups—Open, Youth, and Juniors. Athletes represented 15 clubs from Qatar, along with a team from Lebanon, and competed across 10 weight divisions.The professional bouts took place on the final evening of the championship and featured six high-level matches marked by strong technical and tactical performances. World-class fighters competed for Asian and World titles sanctioned by the World Boxing Council (WBC), in addition to the Diamond Belt.In the opening bout, Russia’s Kerim Khan Kerimkhanov defeated Lebanon’s Abdulwahab Mashareqi on points after a closely contested fight. In the second bout, Russian boxer Ruslan Satiev secured a quick victory with a second-round knockout against Azerbaijan’s Bairam Shammadov.The third fight saw Philippine boxer Jadalie Carolina Medeiros win on points over Iran’s Shirin Shabani after an intense eight-round contest. Algerian boxer Idriss Labidi claimed a decisive second-round knockout victory against Indonesia’s Rivo Rengkung in the fourth bout. In the fifth match, Iran’s Sajad Sattari defeated Thailand’s Kaonar with a second-round knockout.The championship concluded with the sixth bout, where Russian boxer Ali Aliev earned a points victory over American Chip Moraza-Pollard following a strong and competitive fight.Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA), His Excellency Sheikh Fahad bin Khalid Al-Thani, President of the QBWF, said the event brought together all age categories, including Prep, Junior, Youth, and Elite/Professional. He explained that the first two days were dedicated to amateur competitions in the men’s, youth, and junior divisions, with 15 Qatari clubs and the Lebanese team competing for 26 gold medals across 10 weight categories.Sheikh Fahad added that the final day was reserved for professional bouts, featuring world-ranked fighters competing for Asian and World WBC titles, as well as the Diamond Belt.He noted that the Katara Boxing Championship is one of the key events on the QBWF calendar and is held annually to discover new boxing talent for national teams in different age groups. The tournament also provides clubs and training centers across the country with valuable opportunities to compete, gain experience, and improve their performance.Sheikh Fahad described this edition as record-breaking, with higher participation than previous championships, including more clubs, academies, and international involvement from Lebanon. He emphasized that QBWF’s long-term strategy focuses on developing boxers, coaches, clubs, and academies, expanding the talent base, and attracting young athletes to represent Qatar at all levels. 

Eight Teams Secure Quarterfinal Berths at 2025–2026 Mini Basketball World Cup

DOHA  – The race for glory continues as eight schools booked their places in the quarterfinals of the Mini Basketball World Cup 2025–2026 after securing victories in the second phase of the Round of 16. The advancing teams represent the Lebanese School, Al Andalus Private School, Philippine International School, Global Academy  International – Muaither Branch, DPS Modern Indian School, Edison Global Academy – Lusail, GEMS American Academy – Qatar, and Lycée Bonaparte French School – Doha. All matches took place on Thursday at the Qatar Basketball Federation courts.The quarterfinal stage will take place on February 4, followed by the semifinals on February 11 and the third-place playoff on February 12. The championship will conclude with the final match on April 30 at Aspire Academy Stadium, in parallel with the conclusion of the Schools Olympic Program season. In recognition of their final standings, each school will be entitled to select the jersey of one of the national teams qualified for the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027 during the second season of the Mini World Cup.The tournament is a pioneering sporting event, held 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 Association. Its innovative competitive format mirrors the atmosphere of the highly anticipated FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027, blending elite sportsmanship with a holistic educational experience.The Mini Basketball World Cup is part of the Schools Olympic Program for the 2025–2026 and 2026–2027 seasons, serving as both a sporting and educational milestone. In the first edition, schools compete under their official names, while in the second edition in 2027 ,  students will represent the national teams qualified for the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027, reinforcing a sense of pride, identity, and connection to the global basketball stage.The championship aims to integrate sport and education through a unique national experience, connecting students with one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events. It provides them with the opportunity to participate in real competition, develop teamwork, discipline, and collaboration, while opening doors to community engagement and volunteerism. Complementary interactive activities offer students a comprehensive journey into the preparations for the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027, fostering a love for the game and promoting a sustainable sports and cultural legacy that inspires youth in Qatar and beyond.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.Speaking about his impressions of the tournament, student Imaad Hussain, a player for DPS Modern Indian School, expressed strong confidence in his team’s ability to continue their journey with consistency and reach the top of the podium in this exceptional championship. He also highlighted his great enthusiasm to take part in the second edition of the tournament in 2027.Imaad added that wearing the jersey of either the Indian national team or the Qatari national team, among the teams qualified for the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027, represents a source of pride and honor for him, and an inspiring experience for young people in Qatar, the region, and around the world.Mr. Chris See, coach of Global Newton Academy, stated that this exceptional tournament has helped sharpen the students’ skills and provided them with valuable experience in a game that demands both physical strength and speed. He added that it has played a key role in developing their athletic character, expressing his hope that the results of their hard work and dedication will shine in the upcoming knockout stages.Mr. Marwan Egho, Project Director of the 2025–2026 Mini Basketball World Cup, highlighted that this edition of the tournament has showcased advanced technical levels and exceptional skills among the students. He emphasized that it provides a promising opportunity to discover new talents capable of supporting Qatar’s clubs and national teams across all age categories. He added that the championship offered students a rich and valuable experience, helping them deepen their understanding of the tournament structure, game rules, and officiating procedures.

Qatar settle for silver at Asian handball Championship

Kuwait: Qatar finished runners-up at the 22nd Asian Men’s Handball Championship in Kuwait after a narrow 29-26 loss to Bahrain in a tense final that denied them a seventh straight continental crown on Thursday.The Qatari side trailed 14-11 at the break but produced a determined response in the second half to draw level at 24-24 and push the match into overtime. Bahrain proved more clinical in the additional periods to seal their maiden Asian title.Even so, Qatar achieved one of their key objectives by securing qualification for the 2027 World Men’s Handball Championship in Germany, where they will make their 11th appearance. 

The ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Qatar visits ice skating rink at Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiya Arena

DOHA  – His Excellency H.E. Mr. Hyunsoo Yun, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the State of Qatar, paid a visit to the ice skating rink at Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiya Arena at Al Sadd Club, to tour the facilities dedicated to ice sports.The Ambassador was welcomed by Mr. Rashid Majed Al Sulaity, President of the Qatar Winter Sports Committee, and Mr. Hassan Hisham Al Habbabi, Secretary General of the Committee. During the visit, they reviewed the rink’s capabilities and the infrastructure supporting ice sports in Qatar.On the occasion, the Qatar Winter Sports Committee presented His Excellency the Ambassador with a commemorative shield in appreciation of his visit and interest in ice sports, in the presence of the accompanying delegation, which included the Deputy Ambassador and several consuls.Mr. Rashid Majed Al Sulaity expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to the South Korean Ambassador for the visit, noting that ice sports in Qatar are set to witness significant expansion in infrastructure. He emphasized that this growth will strengthen Qatar’s position at both the regional and international levels and support the future development of winter sports in the country.For his part, His Excellency the Ambassador expressed his deep appreciation for the warm reception, praising the advanced level of the ice rink and its modern facilities. He affirmed that the venue represents a leading model of sports infrastructure in Qatar and reflects the country’s comprehensive development in the sports sector, commending the dedication of such a high-quality facility to the promotion and growth of winter sports. 

Qatar Olympic Committee Half Marathon 2026 Prepares for Grand Kickoff

DOHA  – The Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) is entering the final stage of preparations for the 2026 edition of its annual Half Marathon, with a press conference scheduled for Monday, 2 February 2026, at Lusail Hall in the QOC headquarters. The event, one of the most anticipated community sports gatherings on the QOC calendar, will take place along Lusail Boulevard, coinciding with Qatar National Sport Day.The Organising Committee will use the press briefing to present the latest organizational, logistical, technical, and administrative updates, including confirmed race routes, operational protocols, and services available to participants and spectators. Comprehensive safety measures, including medical coverage, emergency plans, and strategically placed volunteer and support points, have been implemented to ensure a secure and seamless experience for all participants from professionals and amateurs to families and young runners.A standout feature of the event is the interactive “Team Village”, designed as a vibrant hub for families and children, featuring a variety of recreational and sporting activities alongside community programs that enhance the celebratory atmosphere and make the Half Marathon a fully immersive sporting and social experience.The race itself will feature carefully designed categories to accommodate participants of all ages and abilities. Children aged 6 to 14 will compete in a 1-kilometre race, while boys and girls aged 15 to 17 will run 5 kilometres. Open categories for men and women aged 19 to 39, as well as those 40 and above, will compete across 5 km, 10 km, and 21 km distances. In addition, dedicated “Team Qatar ” categories for men and women aged 19–39 and 40+ will be included across the same distances, ensuring inclusivity and a comprehensive sporting experience.The Organising Committee has called on all eligible participants to register through the dedicated link on the Qatar Olympic Committee’s website, under the approved terms and conditions. The goal is to expand participation from 6,000 runners in the inaugural edition to 10,000 participants in 2026, from within Qatar and abroad, strengthening the event’s competitive and international profile.The QOC Half Marathon 2026 exemplifies the QOC ’s ongoing commitment to promoting sport as a unifying force, fostering social interaction and inclusion across diverse communities, and reinforcing the values of peace, solidarity, and fraternity.