Qatar recently marked another major milestone in the field of sport when Sheikh Saud Ali Al Thani achieved an extraordinary feat by being elected as the new President of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA).
The 22nd FIBA Congress, convened in Manila, Philippines, echoed with unanimous applause as Sheikh Saud took over the duties from Hamane Niang of Mali, marking a transition that carries immense significance for the global basketball community for the tenure spanning 2023 to 2027.
Sheikh Saud’s illustrious journey in basketball administration symbolizes his devotion to the sport. His role as FIBA Asia President since 2002 has solidified his status as a prominent leader in basketball. Moreover, his prior tenure as President of the Qatar Basketball Federation and his influential position as a Vice President of the Qatar Olympic Committee highlight his versatile contributions to sport in Qatar.
Indeed, this accomplishment is not solely a personal triumph, but a grand honor for Qatar. Sheikh Saud’s appointment underscores the nation’s growing status on the international stage and its commitment to fostering excellence in sports leadership.
Sheikh Saud’s election also highlights Qatar’s deep-rooted passion for basketball and its unwavering dedication and contribution to the sports world. Doha recently secured the privilege of staging the FIBA World Cup 2027, an accomplishment that follows Qatar’s successful organization of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and its upcoming role in hosting the 2023 FIFA Asian Cup. Additionally, the nation is preparing to orchestrate the 21st Asian Games in 2030, a feat it previously accomplished in 2006.
The roots of Qatari basketball run deep, tracing back to the establishment of the Qatar Basketball Association in 1964. The association swiftly integrated into international and regional federations, affiliating with the International Basketball Federation in 1973 and the Asian Federation in 1979.
Qatar hosted the first-ever Asian Basketball Championship in 1988 and went on to secure the championship title. The Qatar youth team’s prowess was further demonstrated when it qualified for the 1999 FIBA World Cup held in Portugal, ultimately claiming the 10th position in the tournament.
In making their decision to grant Qatar the host status, FIBA’s Central Board noted that Doha is one of the best-connected destinations in the world. With all of the teams playing in the same city, fans can plan everything far in advance and enjoy a unique experience since all venues are within 30 minutes of each other. Additionally, all venues to be used for FIBA’s flagship men’s event are already constructed, while widely used green technologies will help in delivering a FIBA World Cup like no other.
