Qatar Football Association
Since its establishment in 1960, the Qatar Football Association has been the starting point of organized sport in Qatar and the main driver of the country’s football development. Its journey now spans domestic growth, two AFC Asian Cup titles, the hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, and a historic qualification pathway to the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Federation
Overview
Football first took root in Qatar through the oil community in the late 1940s, before clubs, national competitions, and federation structures gave the game a formal base. The QFA has since overseen national teams across age groups, major domestic competitions, and long-term talent development supported by institutions such as Aspire Academy.
The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 marked a decisive stage in that journey, reshaping the country’s sporting infrastructure and global profile. On the pitch, the national team’s AFC Asian Cup titles in 2019 and 2023 confirmed the maturity of Qatar’s football project, while qualification for 2026 added another major milestone.
The association’s next priorities are to deepen youth structures, expand women’s football, and strengthen coaching and technical development ahead of the Doha 2030 Asian Games.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al-Thani
President
Mr. Mansoor Al Ansari
Secretary GeneralKey Achievements
2022 FIFA World Cup Host - Delivered the first World Cup in the Middle East across 8 purpose-built stadiums, drawing 3.4 million spectators
Consecutive AFC Asian Cup Titles - Won the continental championship in 2019 and successfully defended it in 2023, one of only 5 nations to achieve back-to-back titles
2026 World Cup Qualification - Earned a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup through Asian qualifiers in October 2025, a first in Qatar's football history