CHAIRMAN: DR. KHALID BIN THANI AL THANI
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: PROF. KHALID MUBARAK AL-SHAFI

Views /Editorial

Spell of sporting spectacles

Published: 16 Nov 2025 - 09:00 am | Last Updated: 16 Nov 2025 - 09:00 am

Doha is in the middle of one of its most exciting sporting stretches yet. The Qatari capital has turned into a live stage for global action from football and Formula One to cricket, horse racing and showjumping. Over the next few weeks, fans will have something thrilling to follow almost every day.

The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, the first edition of the 48-team World Cup, is already lighting up the Aspire Zone’s Competition Complex with the Round of 32 concluding with thrilling matches yesterday. Young talents are competing in world-class venues, with smooth transport links and family-friendly fan zones making it easy for supporters to join the fun. For many players, this is their first step on football’s biggest stage, while for Qatar, it’s another milestone in its journey as a leading host for global sport.

At the same time, cricket fans have their own reason to cheer as the Asian Cricket Council’s (ACC) Rising Stars T20 tournament is in full swing at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Asian Town. The event, running until November 23, has already seen exciting action since it began on Friday, with teams from South Asia and the Gulf, including Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka and Oman, showcasing promising talent. Today’s Pakistan-India fixture, always a major draw, is firmly in the spotlight. The tournament, formerly known as the ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup, adds a new flavour to Qatar’s growing sporting scene.

Once the U-17 World Cup ends, the roar of engines will take over at the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Grand Prix 2025, set for November 28 to 30 at Lusail International Circuit. Fans can expect a spectacular weekend with the F1 race, Sprint Race and supporting events like the Formula 2 Championship and Porsche Carrera Cup. Away from the track, concerts, food zones and cultural activities will make it a complete festival experience.

December will keep the momentum going as Qatar hosts the second edition of the FIFA Arab Cup 2025. The region’s top national teams will battle it out once again from December 1 to 18, celebrating Arab football and unity. The same month will also feature the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2025, with global club giants such as Paris Saint-Germain, Pyramids FC and Cruz Azul fighting for glory on December 10, 13 and 17. Meanwhile, Qatar’s traditional sports - horse racing and showjumping - continue to draw crowds, adding local charm to the global lineup.