The declining number of COVID-19 cases in Qatar is not just heralding the return of normalcy in the country, but it is also sending out good news to sports fans, who are hoping to catch live action with plenty of premier events lined up in the coming weeks. The country has seen sharp dip in the coronavirus cases due to timely restrictions to stop the spread of the disease, which is in its second wave in the country.
The authorities have already announced the gradual lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, which will be in four phases with the first stage scheduled to begin on May 28. The lifting of the restrictions would mean that the chances of fans attending top-notch sports competitions in good numbers will increase.
Qatar – known as the sports hub – hosts a number of high-profile events every season and this year has been no exception. The first chance the fans are expected to get is the Doha Diamond League – a popular athletics events being hosted by Qatar since 1997 – which will be held on May 28 at Qatar Sports Club. Top athletes from around the world are lined up for the event. Local stars Mutaz Barshim – the reigning men’s high jump world champion and Abderrahman Samba – World Championship 400mH bronze medallist are also set to compete.
A real treat will await fans at the final of Amir Cup – country’s most prestigious football tournament – which will be played between arch-rivals Al Sadd and Al Rayyan. Initially, the final was scheduled on May 14 but the organisers postponed the eagerly-awaited match in order to pave the way for fans after gradual lifting of COVID-19 restrictions.
Amir Cup finals are known for attracting huge number of spectators and surely it would be a full house if capacity crowd is allowed at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium.
While there will be more top events in other disciplines, the first FIFA Arab Cup 2021 (November 30 to December 18) will definitely take the spotlight. The competition, involving 23 Arab nations, is seen as a test event for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
The draw for the tournament was held last month, throwing exciting matches and pitting reigning Asian champions Qatar in Group A along with Iraq. But the fans will get a glimpse of the excitement months before the tournament starts as the qualifying rounds are set for next month with 14 teams battling for coveted main round berths. As the pandemic situation improves with thrilling action on the cards in the coming months, fans can surely look forward to fun times ahead.
