Rakan Al Harith competes during the Pommel Horse event.
Doha, Qatar: Qatar’s artistic gymnastics team delivered an impressive performance at the 2026 Asian Artistic Gymnastics Championships, with both Mehrdad Ghadimi and Rakan Al Harith securing places in the apparatus finals of the continental event currently being held in Zunyi, China.
Mehrdad Ghadimi advanced to the Rings Final after producing an outstanding display during the qualification round, earning his place among the continent’s elite specialists on the apparatus.
Rakan Al Harith also booked his place in the Pommel Horse final following a confident and technically accomplished routine, continuing the progress he has demonstrated on the international stage and underlining the growing strength of Qatari gymnastics.
The Qatari delegation travelled to China under the leadership of Ali Al Hitmi, President of the Qatar Gymnastics Federation and First Vice President of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG).
Commenting on the achievement, Al Hitmi praised the performances of both gymnasts and described their qualification for the finals as a major accomplishment for Qatari sport.
“Qualifying two gymnasts for apparatus finals at a championship of this level is a remarkable achievement and reflects the progress being made by Qatari gymnastics,” he said. “The competition includes some of the best gymnasts in the world and Asia, making this result even more significant.”
He added: “This success is the outcome of the hard work and commitment shown by our athletes, coaches and administrative staff, as well as the long-term development programmes implemented by the Federation. We are proud of what has been achieved and look forward to seeing both gymnasts perform strongly in their respective finals.”
Al Hitmi also acknowledged the continued support provided by the Qatar Olympic Committee, emphasizing its important role in helping national federations develop athletes capable of competing successfully at the highest regional, continental and international levels.
