Sport in Qatar

{{Main|Football in Qatar}}

File:Qatar national football team.jpg in 2011.]]

Football is by far the most popular sport in Qatar and is played and supported by locals and expatriates alike. The country has two tiers of domestic professional football leagues. The top tier, known as the Qatar Stars League, has undergone numerous expansions in the last several years. In 2009, the league expanded from ten to twelve clubs,{{cite web|url=http://mail.asiancup2011.com.qa/users/COMPETITIONSEn/QSLEn.aspx#.VbruuvlViko|title=Qatar Stars League (QSL)|website=mail.asiancup2011.com.qa|access-date=30 July 2015}} and again expanded by two clubs in May 2013, bringing the total number of teams in the first division to fourteen.{{cite web|url=http://www.qatarsports.today/qsl-expands-to-14-teams/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151002191952/http://www.qatarsports.today/qsl-expands-to-14-teams/|url-status=usurped|archive-date=October 2, 2015|title=QSL expands to 14 teams|publisher=Qatar Sports Today|date=8 May 2013|access-date=30 July 2015}} Attendance at QSL matches ranges between 2,000 and 10,000, depending on the popularity of the teams.{{cite web|url=http://www.qsl.com.qa/en/News/view/4632/qatar-stars-league-attendances-hit-record-high| title=Qatar Stars League attendances hit record high |date=23 Feb 2014|publisher=Qatar Stars League}} In a 2014 survey conducted by Qatari government ministries and departments, 65% of the 1,079 respondents indicated that they did not attend a football match in the previous league season.{{cite web|url=http://www.qatarisbooming.com/article/audience-are-reluctant-attend-football-matches-stadiums|title=The audience are reluctant to attend football matches at stadiums|website=qatarisbooming.com|date=25 January 2014|access-date=1 October 2015}}

Al Sadd is the most successful sports club in the country, and has won the continental club competition on two occasions. Former Real Madrid and Spain striker Raúl played for Al Sadd between 2012 and 2014, and in July 2015 the club announced the signing of former FC Barcelona and Spain playmaker Xavi.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/may/20/xavi-hernandez-leave-barcelona-qatar-al-sadd|title=Xavi Hernández is leaving Barcelona to join Qatari club Al Sadd|date=20 May 2015|newspaper=Guardian}} In May 2019, Xavi was appointed the head coach of the club following his retirement at the end of the 2018–19 season.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/48435184|title=Barcelona legend Xavi named head coach of Qatari club Al Sadd|access-date=28 May 2019|work=BBC Sport}} Other famous footballers to play in Qatar include Pep Guardiola, Gabriel Batistuta, Fernando Hierro, Ronald de Boer, Santi Cazorla and Marco Verratti.{{cite web|url=http://www.qatarvisitor.com/index.php?cID=412&pID=1148|publisher=Qatar Visitor|title=Football in Qatar|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120707154634/http://www.qatarvisitor.com/index.php?cID=412&pID=1148|archive-date=7 July 2012}}

The Qatari national football team have won the Arabian Gulf Cup three times and twice as hosts, first in 1992 and again in 2004 and 2015.{{cite web|url=http://www.gulfcup.sa/en/archives.php?id=2|title=List of Champions|publisher=Gulf Cup|access-date=15 March 2015}} The youth team also reached the final of the 1981 FIFA World Youth Championship, where they lost 4–0 to West Germany in the final.{{cite web|url=http://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/Digitised/Article/singmonitor19840412-1.2.43.6.aspx|title=Mercedes, $15,000 and bungalow each is Qatar's way|publisher=Singapore Monitor|date=12 April 1984|access-date=11 September 2015}}

Qatar hosted the AFC Asian Cup in 1988, 2011 and 2023. They won the competition for the first time in the 2019 edition, after defeating Japan 3–1 in the final held in Abu Dhabi.{{cite news|url=http://www.the-afc.com/asiancup/news/qatar-clinch-historic-title|title=Qatar clinch historic title|access-date=1 February 2019}}{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/afc-asian-cup/0/blog/post/3764649/qatar-world-cup-2022-hosts-just-won-the-2019-asian-cup-are-they-better-than-we-thought|title=Qatar, World Cup 2022 hosts, just won the 2019 Asian Cup. Are they better than we thought?|access-date=1 February 2019|publisher=ESPN}} Qatar would successfully retain their title on home soil, following a 3–1 victory against Jordan in the 2023 final held in Lusail.{{cite news |url=https://www.the-afc.com/en/national/afc_asian_cup/news/afif_stars_as_qatar_defeat_jordan_to_retain_title.html |title=Afif stars as Qatar defeat Jordan to retain title |date=10 February 2024 |access-date=10 February 2024 |publisher=Asian Football Confederation}}

In June 2019, FIFA awarded Qatar the rights to host the 2019 and 2020 FIFA Club World Cup.{{cite news|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2019/06/qatar-host-fifa-club-world-cups-190603170525934.html|title=Qatar to host next two FIFA Club World Cups|work=Al Jazeera|access-date=3 June 2019}} On 21 December 2019, Qatar concluded the Club World Cup, which was being looked at as a benchmark for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. However, the tournament was announced as one of the most successful editions in history by Secretary-General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), Hassan al-Thawadi.{{cite web|url=https://alkassdigital.net/NewsDetails-5873-Qatar-presented-one-of-most-successful-FIFA-Club-World-Cup-tournaments-SC|title=Secretary-General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) Hassan al-Thawadi|access-date=22 December 2019|website=Alkass Digital}}

File:Rusia entregó el relevo de la antorcha de la Copa del Mundo a Qatar.jpg

On 2 December 2010, Qatar won their bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup.{{cite news |title=Russia, Qatar win 2018 and 2022 World Cups|author=Paul Radford|newspaper=Reuters|date=2 December 2010|url=https://af.reuters.com/article/sportsNews/idAFJOE6B10FA20101202|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101205014106/http://af.reuters.com/article/sportsNews/idAFJOE6B10FA20101202|url-status=dead|archive-date=5 December 2010|access-date=2 December 2010}} Beating rival bids from Australia, the United States, South Korea, and Japan, FIFA stated that the Qatari bid ran on a platform of bringing the World Cup to the only part of the world previously excluded from hosting it, donating parts of stadia to under-developed countries in Africa and Asia after the competition finishes, and allowing fans to watch multiple matches in one day and reduce travel expenses by being the most compact tournament to date.{{cite news|url= https://www.theguardian.com/football/2010/dec/02/qatar-win-2022-world-cup-bid|title= Qatar wins 2022 World Cup bid |date=2 December 2010 |newspaper=The Guardian}}

The local organising committee, the Supreme Committee for Development and Legacy, is planning to build nine new stadiums and expand three existing stadiums for this event. The first stadium to be completed will be the Khalifa International Stadium, due in 2016.{{cite web|url=http://www.thenational.ae/sport/football/qatars-first-world-cup-stadium-khalifa-international-expected-complete-in-2016|title=Qatar's first World Cup stadium, Khalifa International, expected complete in 2016|date=1 September 2015|publisher=The National}} Qatar's winning bid for the 2022 World Cup was greeted enthusiastically in the Arab world as it was the first time a country in the Middle East or North Africa had been selected to host the tournament.

The tournament is expected to generate thousands of jobs, with extensive infrastructure required to prepare the country to host the world's biggest sports games. Official Qatari sources have estimated that the country will spend US$138 billion, which will include new motorways, a new deep-water port, a metro system as well as nine stadia and an extensive fan zone.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup/8749931/Qatar-World-Cup-in-2022-could-cost-138-billion-according-to-financial-analyst.html |title=Qatar World Cup in 2022 could cost £138 billion according to financial analyst |date=8 Sep 2011|newspaper=Daily Telegraph}}

As of summer 2015, major contracts have been awarded to several international companies, including Foster and Partners, WS Atkins, Arup Associates, and Pascall+Watson.{{cite web|url=https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/agenda/qatar-2022-how-uk-contractors-can-win-work-22-11-2013/ |title=Qatar 2022 World Cup offers opportunities to contractors that can adapt and innovate |date=22 Nov 2013|publisher=Construction News}}

In addition to the awarding of contracts to international companies, the Supreme Committee announced its intention to support entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises in the region through the Challenge 22 competition. Held for the first time in June 2015, the competition requires anyone inhabiting a GCC country to submit a business plan. Finalists are invited to Doha for two days of intense coaching, before pitching to judges and winning cash and incubation prizes.{{cite web|url=http://www.constructionweekonline.com/article-34918-qatar-challenge-22-projects-move-to-next-phase/|title=Qatar: Challenge 22 projects move to next phase|date=17 Aug 2015|publisher=Construction Week Online}}

To deliver these projects on time the economy and population are expected to double between 2014 and 2022, with the total number of inhabitants due to exceed four million. The need for new housing has given a boost to the construction and real estate sectors, with growth expected to be 9.5 percent according to the Qatar Statistics Authority.{{cite web|url=http://www.theedge.me/qatars-real-estate-keeping-the-momentum-going|title=Qatar's real estate: Keeping the momentum going|date=25 May 2015|publisher=The Edge}}

The emblem for the 2022 FIFA World Cup was revealed in Doha on September 3, 2019. Since the 2022 FIFA would be the first to be played in winter, the emblem depicts a woolen shawl and is inspired by the Arab culture.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/49577483|title=Fifa World Cup: Qatar 2022 emblem launched globally in Doha, London and New York|work=BBC Sport|access-date=4 September 2019}}

Ahead of the World Cup, the United States Men's National Soccer Team (USMNT) announced to hold a training camp in Doha in January 2020. Players like Gyasi Zardes, Jordan Morris, Sebastian Lletget and Aaron Long have been invited to join the camp at Qatar's Aspire Academy.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2019/12/30/sports/30reuters-soccer-club-usmnt-camp.html|title=USMNT to Face Costa Rica After Camp in Qatar|access-date=30 December 2019|work=The New York Times}}

In October 2021, David Beckham signed a $277 million (£150m) deal with Qatar. Beckham signed a ten-year deal with Qatar to be the face of the Qatar World Cup in 2022.{{Citation|title=Watch: David Beckham signs £150m deal to be face of 2022 Fifa Qatar World Cup|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/tv/sport/david-beckham-qatar-world-cup-ve3ab217c |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220524/https://www.independent.co.uk/tv/sport/david-beckham-qatar-world-cup-ve3ab217c |archive-date=2022-05-24 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|language=en|access-date=2021-10-29}}

File:2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar 0–2 Ecuador - (17).jpg during the opening match of the 2022 FIFA World Cup]]

Argentina were crowned the champions after winning the final against the title holder France 4–2 on penalties following a 3–3 draw after extra time. It was Argentina's third title and their first since 1986, as well as being the first nation from outside of Europe to win the tournament since 2002.{{cite news |last=Smith |first=Rory |author-link=Rory Smith (journalist) |date=18 December 2022 |title=World Cup Coronation Complete! Lionel Messi Claims His Crown as Argentina Rejoices. |magazine=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/live/2022/12/18/sports/argentina-france-world-cup-final-score |url-status=live |access-date=24 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230824211729/https://www.nytimes.com/live/2022/12/18/sports/argentina-france-world-cup-final-score |archive-date=24 August 2023}}

{{main|2022 FIFA World Cup controversies}}

Shortly after the awarding of the 2022 FIFA World Cup to Qatar, the bid was embroiled in controversy, including allegations of bribery. European football associations have also objected to the 2022 World Cup being held in Qatar for a variety of reasons, including the impact of high temperatures on players' fitness, to the disruption it might cause in European domestic league calendars should the event be rescheduled to take place during winter.{{cite web |url= http://www.qatarchronicle.com/sports/35752/europes-top-leagues-protest-against-2022-winter-world-cup-in-qatar/ | title= Europe's Top Leagues protest against 2022 winter World Cup in Qatar |work=Qatar Chronicle |date= 12 August 2013| access-date = 21 August 2013}}{{cite news|url= http://www.qatarchronicle.com/sports/34172/fifa-wants-qatar-2022-postponed-to-winter/ | title=Fifa wants Qatar 2022 postponed to Winter |publisher = Qatar Chronicle |date = 20 July 2013|access-date = 21 August 2013}} In March 2015, FIFA and Qatar agreed that the competition would be held in November and December 2022.{{cite web |url= https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/y=2015/m=3/news=2022-fifa-world-cup-to-be-played-in-november-december-2568172.html |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150529235505/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/y=2015/m=3/news=2022-fifa-world-cup-to-be-played-in-november-december-2568172.html |url-status= dead |archive-date= May 29, 2015 | title= 2022 FIFA World Cup to be played in November/December |work=FIFA |date= 20 March 2015| access-date =9 Sep 2015}}

Qatar authorities have also sought to improve the situation by commissioning British law firm DLA Piper to undertake a review of conditions in 2012.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/may/14/qatar-reform-labout-laws-outcry-world-cup-slaves|title=Qatar promises to reform labour laws after outcry over 'World Cup slaves'|date=14 May 2015|newspaper=Guardian}} Following the recommendations made, Qatar Foundation created the Migrant Workers Welfare Charter which applies minimum requirements to the recruitment, living and working conditions, as well as the general treatment of workers engaged in construction and other projects. The mandatory standards will be incorporated into agreements between Qatar Foundation and all its contractors, who are required to comply with the requirements and rules. Contractors and sub-contractors found to be violating the regulations have been blacklisted from future tenders.{{cite web|url=http://www.constructionweekonline.com/article-22158-qatar-foundation-launches-workers-rights-charter/|title=Qatar Foundation launches workers' rights charter|date=29 April 2013|publisher=Construction Week Online}}

Labour rights have slowly been improving since the review; for example, in August 2015, Qatar announced it would launch a new electronic salary system to guarantee safe and punctual payments directly into workers' bank accounts.{{cite web|url=http://www.thenational.ae/business/economy/world-cup-2022-host-qatar-to-start-enforcing-wage-protection-system-from-november |title=World Cup 2022 host Qatar to start enforcing Wage Protection System from November |date=2 Sep 2015|publisher=The National}} Companies that fail to pay their workers on time will be fined and the country maintains that prison sentences could even be handed out. Government ministers also predict that changes to the country's kafala system will be announced later in 2015.

On 31 March 2016, Amnesty International report condemned Qatar for its forced labour and abuses against migrant workers. This report is based on 132 migrant construction workers. According to the report, there were many issues like congested and small accommodations, not being paid for several months, kafala sponsorship system, and many others.{{Cite web |date=2016-03-31 |title=Qatar: Abuse of World Cup workers exposed |url=https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/press-release/2016/03/abuse-of-world-cup-workers-exposed/ |access-date=2022-09-06 |website=Amnesty International |language=en}} In October 2019, Qatari authorities have taken a significant step towards protecting migrant workers. According to the reports the reforms include minimum thresholds for wage, food, and accommodation, totaling QR 1,800. In addition, a Minimum Wage Commission was established to monitor its impact. Between September 2020 and March 2022, over 300,000 workers (including 7,000 domestic workers) changed their jobs. The Worker’s Support and Insurance Fund, established in 2019, has disbursed QAR 358,000,000 (nearly USD 100m) to over 35,000 workers, in March 2022. A non-discriminatory minimum wage came into force in March 2021, and 280,000 workers, or 13% of the workforce received a wage rise. The number of complaints on the online platform was nearly 25,000 in 2021, compared to 11,000 in the previous year. In March 2022, 228 workers’ representatives were elected to represent almost 40,000 employees in 37 enterprises.{{Cite web |date=2022-04-07 |title=Overview of Qatar’s labour reforms |url=http://www.ilo.org/beirut/countries/qatar/qatar-office/WCMS_760466/lang--en/index.htm |access-date=2022-09-06 |website=www.ilo.org |language=en}}

File:Qatar Warda Murgan Basketball 6074107320 624c999ce3 o.jpg

Basketball is an increasingly popular sport in Qatar. The sport is administered by the Qatar Basketball Federation (QBF).{{cite web|url=http://www.qatarbasketball.qa/en/index.php/2012-02-25-15-13-55/2012-02-25-15-52-04/qbf-committees|title=QBF Committees|publisher=Qatar Basketball Federation|date=25 February 2012|access-date=31 July 2015}} The QBF was established in 1964, but was only admitted into the FIBA Asia and the Organizing Committee of the GCC in 1979.{{cite web|url=http://www.qatarbasketball.qa/ar/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=707&Itemid=816|title=نبذة تاريخية|publisher=Qatar Basketball Federation|access-date=31 July 2015}}

Qatar's first basketball championship came in the 1995 GCC Youth Championship.{{cite web|url=http://www.qatarbasketball.qa/ar/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=734&Itemid=828|title=البطـولات والمنافسات الخـارجيـة|publisher=Qatar Basketball Federation|access-date=31 July 2015}} The national basketball team won back-to-back bronze medals in the 2003 and 2005 editions of the Asian Basketball Championship{{cite web|url=http://philnews.ph/2013/07/31/qatar-line-up-fiba-asia-2013-championship-team-roster-preview/|title=Qatar Line-Up: FIBA Asia 2013 Championship (Team Roster Preview)|publisher=Philippine News|author=Ed Umbao|date=31 July 2013|access-date=24 July 2015}} and qualified for the FIBA Basketball World Cup for the first time in 2006 held in Japan.{{cite web|url=https://archive.fiba.com/pages/eng/fa/event/p/sid/3507/_/2006_World_Championship_for_Men/index.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091208101006/http://archive.fiba.com/pages/eng/fa/event/p/sid/3507/_/2006_World_Championship_for_Men/index.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=December 8, 2009|title=2006 FIBA World Championship|publisher=FIBA|access-date=24 July 2015}} Qatar will host the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup making Qatar the first FIBA Basketball World Cup in the Middle East or North Africa region.{{cite web|url=http://www.fiba.basketball/news/qatar-announced-as-host-of-the-fiba-basketball-world-cup-2027|title=Qatar announced as host of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027|publisher=FIBA|access-date=27 April 2023}}

Club teams compete in the Qatari Basketball League, the top domestic basketball league in the country. Qatar's first women's basketball league was launched in 2012.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.arabianbusiness.com/qatar-launches-first-women-s-basketball-league-455467.html|title=Qatar launches first Women's Basketball League|magazine=Arabian Business|author=Elizabeth Broomhall|date=26 April 2012|access-date=31 July 2015}}

On 28 April 2023, during a central board meeting in Manila, FIBA announced that Qatar will host the upcoming 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup.{{Cite news |date=2023-04-29 |title=Qatar to host men's basketball World Cup in 2027 |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/sports/basketball/qatar-host-mens-basketball-world-cup-2027-2023-04-29/ |access-date=2023-06-16}} The 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup will be the 20th tournament of the FIBA Basketball World Cup for men's national basketball teams. The tournament will be the third to feature 32 teams.

It will be the first FIBA Basketball World Cup to be held in the Arab world, and the third straight to be held in Asia after the 2019 tournament in China and the 2023 edition co-hosted by the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia. Qatar will also be the second Muslim country to host after the 2010 edition in Turkey.{{Cite web |title=Qatar announced as host of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 |url=https://www.fiba.basketball/news/qatar-announced-as-host-of-the-fiba-basketball-world-cup-2027 |access-date=2023-06-16 |website=FIBA.basketball |language=en}}

Qatar featured a men's national team in beach volleyball that competed at the 2018–2020 AVC Beach Volleyball Continental Cup.{{cite news |title= Continental Cup Finals start in Africa|url=https://www.fivb.com/en/about/news/continental-cup-finals-start-in-africa?id=94414 |access-date=7 August 2021 |work=FIVB |date=22 June 2021}}

Cricket is the second most popular sport in Qatar, albeit one that the local citizens play very little. Despite that, massive numbers of migrant workers and residents from South Asia and the Indian Subcontinent play the game that is a national pastime in their countries of origin. Since the subcontinent accounts for nearly half the residents in Qatar, the game is rapidly picking up its pace. Although the local Qatar national team isn't as popular, cricket tournaments such as the ICC World Cup and the ICC World Twenty20 which exclude Qatar but include nations that account for most of the expatriates in the country are one of the most viewed sporting events in the country.

The Qatar Cricket Association (QCA) is set to host the country's first T10 League by the end of 2019.{{cite web|url=https://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/28/07/2019/QCA-set-to-launch-T10-League-gets-ICC-clearance|title=QCA set to launch T10 League; gets ICC clearance|access-date=28 July 2019|publisher=The Peninsula}}

Futsal became an officially sanctioned sport in 2007, when the fully professional Qatar Futsal League was established.{{cite web|url=http://ticketa.afcasiancup.com/futsal-beach-soccer-development/afc-futsal-development-team-visits-qatar|title=AFC Futsal Development Team Visits Qatar|publisher=The AFC|date=5 March 2014|access-date=17 September 2015}} There are two futsal tournaments; the QFA Futsal Cup and the Open Cup, which was inaugurated in 2010.{{cite web|url=https://qataronlinecasinos.com/qatari-futsal-national-team-great-expectations/|title=Qatari futsal: great expectations|publisher=Futsal Planet|date=2 July 2010|access-date=17 September 2015}} Futsal is overseen by a department of the Qatar Football Association.{{cite web|url=http://www.qfa.com.qa/futsal-and-beach-soccer/competitions/|title=Futsal and beach soccer|publisher=Qatar Football Association|access-date=17 September 2015}} A women's league was launched in 2009 under the auspices of the Women's Sports Committee.{{cite web|url=http://dohanews.co/womens-football-in-qatar-making-strides-but-more-young-talent-needed/|title=Women's football in Qatar making strides, but more young talent needed|publisher=Doha News|author=Mai Akkad|date=25 February 2014|access-date=17 September 2015}}

File:2015 World Men's Handball Championship final, Qatar vs France.jpg final, Qatar vs France]]

Handball is a very popular team sport in Qatar. It was introduced to the country in 1968; however, Qatar did not join the International Handball Federation until the 1970s.{{cite web|url=http://www.slate.com/articles/sports/sports_nut/2015/02/_2022_world_cup_why_the_2015_men_s_handball_world_championship_in_qatar.html|title=2022 World Cup: Why the 2015 Men's Handball World Championship in Qatar in Qatar should worry soccer fans|author=Stefan Fatsis|date=5 February 2015|access-date=31 July 2015}} The Qatar men's national handball team qualified for the IHF World Men's Handball Championship on four occasions, and automatically qualified for a fifth as host. Qatar came runners-up to France in the 2015 World Handball Championship held on home soil, however the tournament was marred by various controversies.{{cite web|url=http://dohanews.co/qatar-comes-short-final-following-historic-handball-performance/|title=Qatar comes up short in final following historic handball performance|publisher=Doha News|author=Peter Kovessy|date=1 February 2015|access-date=31 July 2015}}

Qatar has won the Asian Men's Handball Championship title four times in a row in 2014, 2016, 2018 and 2020.{{cite web|url=https://www.beinsports.com/en/handball/news/qatar-retain-the-asian-mens-handball-champion/1400942|title=Qatar retain the Asian Men's Handball Championship for the fourth straight time|access-date=27 January 2020|publisher=beIN Sports}}{{cite web|url=https://www.iloveqatar.net/news/sports/qatar-wins-19th-asian-mens-handball-championship-2020-vs-south-korea|title=Qatar wins 19th Asian Men's Handball Championship 2020|access-date=28 January 2020}}

{{Main|Equestrianism in Qatar}}

Horse racing has been increasing in popularity in Qatar since the late 20th century. In 1995, the first edition of the Desert Marathon was held, attracting riders from across the world.{{cite book|last1=Augustin|first1=Byron|last2=Augustin|first2=Rebecca A.|title=Qatar|publisher=Children's Press|location=New York|series=Enchantment of the World Second Series|pages=101|date=1 January 1997}} Two of the most important horse breeding and indoor racing facilities are Al Shaqab and Al Samriya Equestrian Centre.

Qatar has hosted the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters, a European Tour golf event, since 1998.{{cite web |url=http://www.europeantour.com/europeantour/season=2012/tournamentid=2012005/stats/factsfigures/index.html |title=Facts and Figures - Commercial Bank Qatar Masters|work=EuropeanTour.com |publisher=The PGA European Tour |access-date=10 December 2012}}

In October 2021, Sultan Khalid Al Kuwari won U-13 World table tennis tournament with 3-2 victory over compatriot Rawad Al Nasser at Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Muscat, Oman.{{cite news |title= Qatar’s Al Kuwari wins U-13 WTT title in Oman

|url= https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/13/10/2021/Qatar%E2%80%99s-Al-Kuwari-wins-U-13-WTT-title-in-Oman |access-date=13 October 2021}}

File:Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah and Motaz Essa Barsham.jpg, Nasser Al-Attiyah and Mutaz Essa Barshim posing for a picture.]]

Qatar Racing Club, a drag racing facility where the Arabian Drag Racing League competes, is located in the country's capital Doha on a 150,000 m² area. Its racing track has a capacity for 2,000 people.{{cite web|url=http://adminuser.mcs.gov.qa/OpenDataLibrary/final%20QOC%20Venue%20Booklet%20-MOCSv1---.pdf|title=QOC Venue Booklet|publisher=Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC)|page=18|date=24 March 2015|access-date=28 January 2019}}

Khalid bin Hamad Al Thani, the first Qatari to drive a Formula One car,{{cite web|url=http://www.f1network.net/main/williams-f1/s107/st152376/first-qatari-drives-williams-f1|title=First Qatari drives Williams F1|publisher=f1network.com|date=11 December 2009|access-date=19 March 2015}} is involved in the sport and is the owner of Al-Annabi Racing.{{cite web|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB124036522998941969|title=Drag Racing's Patron Sheik|publisher=The Wall Street Journal|last=Futterman|first=Futterman|date=22 April 2009|access-date=12 March 2015}}

Qatari athlete Nasser Al-Attiyah has won 2011, 2015 and 2019 Dakar Rally, the 2008, 2015, 2016 and 2017 FIA Cross Country Rally World Cup, the 2006 Production World Rally Championship, and the 2014 and 2015 World Rally Championship-2.

The Losail International Circuit has hosted the Qatar motorcycle Grand Prix since 2004, a Superbike World Championship round from 2005 to 2009 and since 2014, a Motocross World Championship round since 2013{{cite web|url=http://www.motocrossplanet.com/worldwide/3914/Grand-Prix-Motocross-meets-Losail-for-the-first-time|title=GRAND PRIX MOTOCROSS MEETS LOSAIL FOR THE FIRST TIME|publisher=motocrossplanet.com|access-date=19 March 2015}}{{cite web|url=http://www.motogp.com/en/event/Qatar|title=About the circuit|publisher=MotoGP|access-date=19 July 2015}} and hosted its first ever Formula One grand prix on November 21, 2021,{{Cite web|title=Qatar to join F1 calendar in 2021, as country signs additional 10-year deal from 2023|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/latest/article.breaking-qatar-to-join-f1-calendar-in-2021-as-country-signs-additional-10.50lbiJcZfoo6udNWZMDAn6.html|access-date=2021-10-01|website=www.formula1.com|language=en}} with Lewis Hamilton taking the inaugural victory.{{Cite web|title=Qatar Grand Prix 2021 - F1 Race|url=https://www.formula1.com/en/racing/2021/Qatar.html|access-date=2021-12-22|website=Formula 1® - The Official F1® Website|language=en}}

The Grand Prix of Qatar, a round in the Formula 1 Powerboat World Championship, was held annually in Doha Bay from 2005 to 2015.{{cite web|url=http://www.oryxinflightmagazine.com/middle-east/power-boats.html|title=Power boats|publisher=Oryx in-flight magazine|access-date=19 July 2015}} In addition, the state-sponsored Qatar Team won four Formula 1 championships with Jay Price (2008){{cite news|title=Jay Price Leads Qatar Team To A Dominating 2008 Title!|url=http://www.f1h2o.com/post/jay-price-leads-qatar-team-to-a-dominating-2008-title|work=F1H2O|date=31 December 2008|access-date=26 January 2016}} and Alex Carella (2011–2013).{{cite news|title=Carella Locks Down Third Straight Title With Win In Sharjah!|url=http://www.f1h2o.com/post/carella-locks-down-third-straight-title-with-win-in-sharjah|work=F1H2O|date=13 December 2013|access-date=26 January 2016}} Qatar ended their involvement in Formula 1 powerboat racing in early 2015 with the merger of the Qatar Sailing Federation and Qatar Marine Sports Federation (QMSF).{{cite news|title=The F1 H2O Qatar Team have "frozen" their 2015 plans|url=http://www.raceboatinternational.com/the-f1-h20-qatar-team-have-frozen-their-2015-racing-plans/|author=David Sewell|work=Raceboat International|date=4 April 2015|access-date=26 January 2016}}

Since November 2009, Qatar has been the host of the Oryx Cup World Championship, a hydroplane boat race in the H1 Unlimited season. The races take place in Doha Bay.{{cite web|url=http://www.h1unlimited.com/2014/03/2014-oryx-cup-dates-announced/|title=2014 Oryx Cup Dates Announced|publisher=H1 Unlimited|date=12 March 2014|access-date=19 July 2015}}

Camel racing holds significant cultural value in Qatar, preserving a connection to the region's historical reliance on camels as a primary mode of transportation. Camel racing is also an age-old tradition among the Bedouin tribes of Qatar and would be performed on special occasions such as weddings.{{cite web |url=http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0022/002240/224033e.pdf |title=The Camel From Tradition to Modern Times |first1=Marc |last1=Breulmann |first2=Benno |last2=Böer |first3=Ulrich |last3=Wernery |first4=Renate |last4=Wernery |first5=Hassan |last5=El Shaer |first6=Ghaleb |last6=Alhadrami |first7=David |last7=Gallacher |first8=John |last8=Peacock |first9=Shaukat Ali |last9=Chaudhary |first10=Gary |last10=Brown |first11=John |last11=Norton |publisher=UNESCO |access-date=23 August 2018|name-list-style=amp}}{{rp|25}} Despite the modernization witnessed in the State of Qatar, its locals remain deeply attached to camel racing, considering it a symbol of their past. This is signified by the patronage of Qatar's leaders, including Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who actively participate in the sport and attend festivals. Substantial investments have been made by the Qatari government to advance the sport. The Camel Racing Organizing Committee (Hejan) has spearheaded initiatives aimed at enhancing the infrastructure and competitiveness of camel racing in Qatar. Notably, the Al-Shahaniya Arena has emerged as a premier venue for camel racing in the Gulf region, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and illuminated tracks for nighttime races. Additionally, advancements in registration systems, such as the implementation of electronic services for camel owners, witnessed the introduction of modern technologies while preserving traditional sporting practices.{{cite web|url=https://www.hejen.qa/detailed/pages/b1f9cf23-29a4-4e20-a64b-5848740e1408/|title=Camel racing in the State of Qatar|publisher=Camel Racing Committee (Hejan)|accessdate=1 May 2024}}

File:Camels racing down the Al Shahaniya Camel Racetrack in Qatar.jpg

The historical evolution of camel racing in Qatar dates back to 1973 when the first camel race was organized in Al-Farra, an area located 9 km west of Al-Shahaniya. It featured 300 camels. Subsequent developments saw the establishment of racetracks like Al Rayyan Square and Libraqa Square, which hosted races until the late 1980s. The modern Al-Shahaniya Camel Racetrack was inaugurated in 1990, offering varying race distances and comprehensive facilities to accommodate both participants and spectators. Qatar boasts two distinct types of camels: the Qatari (Omani) camels, known for their robust build and endurance, and the Sudanese camels, prized for their nimbleness and speed. Typically, camel racing season takes place from September to March.{{Cite web |title=Discovering Traditional Sports - Camel Racing |url=https://qlevents.qaactivities/art-and-culture/discovering-qatars-traditional-sports-camel-racing/ |access-date=2023-01-18 |website=qlevents.qaactivities |language=en}} Approximately 22,000 racing camels are used in competitions which are mainly held at the Al-Shahaniya Camel Racetrack and attended by thousands of spectators. The average distance of such races is usually 4 to 8 km depending on the conditions of the camels being raced. Prizes for the winners of such races can be massive, such as cars worth $200,000.{{cite web|url=https://www.thenational.ae/world/qatar-s-prized-racing-camels-bred-for-success-1.634580|title=Qatar's prized racing camels bred for success|publisher=Agence France-Presse|website=thenational.ae|author=David Harding|date=1 May 2017|access-date=23 August 2018}}

Over the years, prestigious annual festivals, such as the "Grand Annual Festival," have been introduced to celebrate the sport's heritage and showcase the finest camels from Qatar and neighboring Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. In addition to governmental support, technological innovations have played a pivotal role in advancing camel racing in Qatar. The introduction of robot jockeys in 2005 marked a milestone, enhancing safety and efficiency during races.{{cite web|url=https://www.hejen.qa/detailed/pages/8519f56e-7a92-4f79-9286-a312f7343dc8|title=The Camel Racing Organizing Committee|publisher=Camel Racing Committee (Hejan)|accessdate=1 May 2024}}

{{Main|Equestrianism in Qatar}}

File:Falco cherrug Qatar.jpg used in falconry in the deserts of Qatar]]

Falconry has been a popular and culturally-revered practice in Qatar for centuries.{{Cite news |last1=Schaff |first1=Erin |last2=Goldbaum |first2=Christina |date=2022-12-15 |title=Falconry is an Ancient Sport. In Qatar, Drones Give it a Twist. |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2022/12/15/world/middleeast/world-cup-qatar-falcons.html |access-date=2023-01-17 |issn=0362-4331}} Initially embraced by a select few, falconry gradually burgeoned in popularity, becoming a tradition passed down through generations. As the sport proliferated, so too did the demand for hunting falcons, leading to a surge in their market value.{{cite book|last1=Zyarah|first1=Khaled|translator-first1=K.|translator-last1=Bishtawi|title=Gulf Folk Arts|publisher=Al-Ahleir Press|location=Doha|year=1997|pages=11–15}} On average, a falcon can go for anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000; a price of $250,000 was even recorded at an auction in 2022. Given the substantial financial investment required, falconry remains a pursuit primarily reserved for those of financial means.{{cite web|url=https://efe.com/en/other-news/2022-10-11/qatar-2022s-millennial-falcon-tourism-luxury-tradition|title=Qatar 2022’s millennial falcon: tourism, luxury, tradition|publisher=EFE|date=11 October 2022|accessdate=28 April 2024}} The only falconry association is Al Gannas, which was founded in 2008 in the Katara Cultural Village and which hosts the Annual Falconry Festival, otherwise known as S'hail.{{Cite web |date=2020-12-04 |title=Qatar Maintains Commitment to Falconry as a World Heritage |url=https://www.qna.org.qa/en/News-Area/News/2018-09/06/qatar-maintains-commitment-to-falconry-as-a-world-heritage |access-date=2023-01-18 |website=www.qna.org.qa |language=en}} Hunting season extends from October to April.{{cite web|url=http://www.marhaba.qa/falconry-a-national-sport/|title=Falconry: A National Sport|publisher=Marhaba|date=20 September 2017|access-date=23 August 2018}}

The art of falconry demands not only a fervent passion for the hunt but also a profound understanding of both prey and predator. A successful falconer must possess keen observational skills, discerning the subtle intricacies of avian anatomy and behavior. The selection of a prime hunting falcon hinges upon meticulous examination, wherein feathers, coloration, and physical attributes serve as crucial indicators of prowess. Additionally, falconry necessitates robust vehicles and adept drivers capable of navigating the rugged terrain of the desert. Falconers traverse great distances in search of game, with the vast plains of Saudi Arabia, Sudan and Pakistan being popular choices. The most popular venue for falconry in Qatar is the Falcon Souq at Souq Waqif in Doha. Among the activities that take place here are auctions for expensive birds, the process of taming, and veterinary care for falcons, which is provided at the state-of-the-art Souq Waqif Falcon Hospital.{{cite web|url=https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/highlights/iconic-places/falcon-souq|title=Falcon Souq|publisher=Visit Qatar|accessdate=28 April 2024}}

Four primary variants of falcons are trained for hunting in Arabia:{{cite book|last=Whelan|first=John|title=Qatar, a MEED practical guide|isbn=0950521191|location=London|publisher=Middle East Economic Digest|page=38|year=1983}}

• Saker falcon (Falco cherrug): Held in high regard by Bedouins for its endurance and adaptability, the saker is recognized for its keen eyesight and intelligence, excelling in low-level desert hunts and handling larger prey like hares.
• Peregrine falcon or Shahin Bahri (Falco peregrinus): Valued for its exceptional speed and flight skills, the peregrine is the most expensive due to its rarity and delicate nature. Typically found near water, peregrines require gentle handling and are especially noted for their natural stoop dive attack.
• Lanner falcon or Shahin Wakri (Falco biarmicus): Though not as fast or powerful as the peregrine and saker, the lanner is hardy and even-tempered, making it suitable for desert conditions.
• Gyrfalcon or Sungur (Falco rusticolus): Imported rather than native, the gyr falcon is admired for its size and color but is often kept as a show bird due to its delicate health and striking pale grey color.

File:A room where falcons are kept in Souq Waqif.jpg

Falcons are primarily acquired through trapping, with few taken from nests. The area surrounding Al Khor Bay is a popular falcon trapping area. Common methods include using pigeons with nooses to ensnare the falcon's talons or deploying spring-loaded fishing nets around a baited pigeon. The hallmarks of a good falcon include strong posture, glossy feathers, splayed talons, and a broad back, with paler shades being most valued.{{cite book|last=Whelan|first=John|title=Qatar, a MEED practical guide|isbn=0950521191|location=London|publisher=Middle East Economic Digest|page=39|year=1983}}

Training falcons involves meticulous care, balancing their physical condition through feeding. Initially restrained to prevent feather damage, a new falcon's eyes are sealed or hooded. Gradually acclimated to human activity, it is trained to return to the falconer's fist and to hunt using a lure (milwah) made from its usual prey.

Although historically less economically important than pearl hunting, fishing was considered among the cornerstones of Qatar's economy in the past. The two primary methods of fishing were known as hadaq and laffah. Hadaq consisted of fishing during a stationary position, and laffah was performed while moving. In 2012, the first edition of the Senyar Festival was organized by Katara Cultural Village with the aim of preserving Qatar's maritime heritage.{{cite web|last1=Al-Sayed|first1=Muhammad|url=https://www.aljazeera.net/misc/2019/3/31/%D9%83%D8%AA%D8%A7%D8%B1%D8%A7-%D8%AA%D8%B3%D8%AA%D8%B6%D9%8A%D9%81-%D9%85%D9%87%D8%B1%D8%AC%D8%A7%D9%86-%D8%B3%D9%86%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%B1-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AB%D8%A7%D9%85%D9%86|title=الحداق واللفاح.. إرث قطري لم يمحه الزمن|publisher=Al Jazeera|language=Arabic|date=31 March 2019|accessdate=7 June 2024}} During the Senyar Festival, the two fishing competitions held are the Hadaq championship, which is followed by the Laffah championship, and finally the Qaffal, which is the grand ceremony.{{cite web|url=https://www.gulf-times.com/story/589571/laffah-fishing-competition-to-begin-on-katara-beach-today|title=Laffah fishing competition to begin on Katara beach today|publisher=Gulf Times|date=19 April 2018|accessdate=7 June 2024}} The team sizes consist of 10 to 13 people. Contestants are only allowed to use traditional fishing methods, with the winning team being selected based on the total weight of their catch. The 2018 edition of the festival saw the eligibility restrictions loosened to allow four GCC nationals or expatriates living in Qatar on each team.{{cite web|url=https://www.katara.net/en/about-katara/news/katara-seventh-senyar-festival-continues|title=Katara's Seventh Senyar Festival continues|publisher=Katara|date=11 April 2018|accessdate=7 June 2024}} Katara also hosted the inaugural edition of the Bilmesan Championship in May 2024, held near Halul Island. It featured the 16 top teams of the 2024 Senyar Festival.{{cite web|url=https://www.alkassdigital.net/NewsDetails-14872-Senyar-s-Bilmesan-Championship-continues-until-Saturday|title=Senyar’s Bilmesan Championship continues until Saturday|publisher=Al Kass|date=17 May 2024|accessdate=7 June 2024}}

There is also a pearl diving competition held during the Senyar Festival. The 2018 edition featured 15 dhows and 168 pearl divers.{{cite web|url=https://www.gulf-times.com/story/587889/katara-pearl-diving-competition-concludes-friday|title=Katara pearl diving competition concludes Friday|publisher=Gulf Times|date=5 April 2018|accessdate=7 April 2024}}

File:2009 Emir of Qatar Cup Final - DSC 0518 (3581777008).jpg in 2009]]

Statistics accurate as of 2013.

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{{columns-list|colwidth=22em|

• 2004 - 2004 Asian Men's Handball Championship - hosted{{cite web|url=http://www.usqbc.org/?p=118|title=Sports|publisher=US-Qatar Business Council|access-date=24 July 2015}}
• 2004 - ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships - hosted
• 2005 - Asian Basketball Championships - hosted
• 2005 - World Weightlifting Championships - hosted
• 2005 - West Asian Games - hosted
• 2006 - Asian Sailing Championships - hosted
• 2006 - 2006 Asian Games - hosted
• 2008 - Asian Indoor Athletics Championships - hosted
• 2008 - Asian Youth Wrestling Championships - hosted
• 2008 - Asian Optimist Sailing Championships - hosted
• 2009 - Asian Fencing Championships - hosted
• 2009 - FIVB Club World Championships - hosted
• 2009 - ISF World Gymnasiade - hosted
• 2009 - 2009 Asian Airgun Championships- hosted
• 2010 - IAAF World Indoor Championships - hosted
• 2010 - ISAF World Junior 470 Sailing C'ships - hosted
• 2011 - 2011 AFC Asian Cup - hosted
• 2011 - 2011 Pan Arab Games - hosted
• 2012 - 2012 Asian Shooting Championships - hosted
• 2014 - 2014 FINA World Swimming Championships (25 m) - hosted
• 2015 - IHF Handball World Championships - hosted
• 2015 - Doha 2015 IPC Athletics World Championships
• 2015 - World Amateur Boxing Championships - hosted
• 2015 - World Robot Olympiad - hosted{{cite web|url=http://www.wroboto.org/wro2014|title=WRO 2015 in Doha, Qatar|publisher=World Robot Oylmpiad|access-date=12 March 2015}}
• 2016 - UCI Road Cycling World Championships - hosted
• 2018 - FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships - hosted
• 2019 - World Athletics Championships - hosted
• 2019 - 2019 World Beach Games - hosted
• 2019 - FIFA Club World Cup - hosted
• 2019 - 2019 Asian Shooting Championships - hosted
• 2020 - FIFA Club World Cup - hosted
• 2021 - FIFA Arab Cup - hosted
• 2022 - FIFA World Cup - hosted
• 2023 - AFC Asian Football Cup - hosted
• 2023 - World Judo Championships - hosted
• 2024 - FINA World Aquatics Championships - hosted
• 2024 - FINA Masters - hosted
• 2027 - FIBA Basketball World Cup
• 2030 - Asian Games

}}

• since 1993 - ATP Qatar ExxonMobil Open
• since 1998 - European Tour Golf Commercial Bank Qatar Masters
• since 2004 - FIM Moto Racing World Championships
• since 2008 - FEI Equestrian Global Champions Tour
• since 2001 - WTA Qatar Open
• since 2010 - World Athletics Diamond League
• 2002 & 2010-2018 - Handball IHF Men's Super Globe
• 2009-2012 - FIVB Men's Volleyball Club World Championship

• 2020 - Olympic Games

• Khalifa International Stadium
• Qatar at the Olympics
• Qatari folk games

{{reflist|30em}}

{{Qatar topics}}

{{Sport in Asia}}