Qatar’s sports season known for delivering top-notch action over the years is in full swing with many international and domestic competitions being held in Doha – famous as the world’s sports hub. With Qatar Masters Open Chess Championship concluding on Friday, the country is currently hosting the Asian Men’s Handball Qualification for next year’s Paris Olympics.
All eyes of the global chess fraternity were on the Lusail Multipurpose Hall, which hosted the Qatar Masters from October 10 to 20 with almost all the big names of the sport competing for top honours in the $120,000 tournament. Uzbek grandmaster Nodirbek Yakubboev clinched the coveted title with World No.1 Magnus Carlsen of Norway sealing a joint fourth position along with 13 other competitors after days of exciting battles.
At the Al Duhail Arena, as many as 11 Asian nations including Bahrain, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, India, Iran, South Korea, Japan, China, and Kazakhstan besides hosts Qatar are competing for an Olympic spot in the Asian handball qualifiers which will continue until October 28. The winning side will confirm their Olympic ticket while runners-up will book a play-off spot.
The picturesque Doha Golf Club will be home to elite golfers who are set to take part in the 26th edition of the popular DP World Tour (European Tour) from October 26 to 29. Considered as the “must attend” event, the tournament which is being held since 1998 is known for bringing together the world’s best players. The likes of Rory Mcllroy, Sergio Garcia, Justin Rose, Rafael Cabrera-Bello, Branden Grace and Henrik Stenson have all competed in the tournament in previous years. After hosting a successful Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix earlier this month, Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) and state-of-the-art Lusail International are now gearing up to host the MotoGP Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar, which will be held from November 17 to 19. Qatar is also ready to host another edition of the Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy with the participation of 17 countries on November 3 and 4.
The domestic sports scene is also witnessing thrilling action with Expo Stars League and the Ooredoo Cup football competitions reaching crucial stages. Preparation of Qatar football team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers and the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 is also gaining momentum. Al Annabi have recently featured in a four-nation tournament in Jordan where they finished runners-up. The busy horse racing and show jumping seasons which started earlier this month have also produced thrilling action along with other sports. The ongoing season will also see Qatar’s first-ever women’s basketball league which is scheduled to be held from November 6, 2023 to February 15, 2024.
