World Athletics Chief Sebastian Coe Praises Qatar’s Sports and Economic Growth at Asian Athletics Council Meeting

At the Asian Athletics Council Meeting on Thursday, World Athletics President Lord Sebastian Coe commended Qatar’s impressive strides in sports and economic development. His remarks highlighted the nation’s successful track record in hosting major sports events, from the 2006 Asian Games to the widely acclaimed 2022 FIFA World Cup, and the anticipated 2030 Asian Games.

Speaking at the gathering in Doha, Coe expressed his deep connection to Qatar, referring to it as his “second home.” He recalled the 2019 World Athletics Championships, a key event for Qatar that was lauded for its execution. “I first visited Qatar in 1997,” Coe said, reflecting on his long history with the country. “The urban landscape was remarkable then, but it has since developed at a unique speed.” He described Qatar’s growth as multifaceted, noting how its advancements in sports infrastructure mirror its economic progress.

Coe’s praise extended to Dahlan Al-Hamad, President of the Asian Athletics Association (AAA) and a prominent figure in Qatari sports development. Coe acknowledged Al-Hamad’s leadership, saying, “Dahlan, you have achieved much publicly and behind the scenes. It’s an honor to be here in person, face-to-face with all of you. Human connection matters—something technology can never replace.”

Al-Hamad, who was present at the event, also shared his appreciation for Coe’s ongoing support. Recalling their first meeting in 2003, Al-Hamad said, “I knew back then you wanted to make a difference in our sport. Now, we are part of that journey.” He reflected on the 2019 World Championships, hosted by Qatar, which had initially faced skepticism due to the timing and weather conditions. “Thanks to the backing of World Athletics, we made it a success, and today, we continue to push toward 2027 with a commitment to advancing athletics across Asia.”

Al-Hamad, a seasoned leader in Asian athletics, was re-elected as AAA president in July 2022, marking his third term. He was first elected in 2013 and has since led significant advancements within the association, transforming it into a driving force for athletics in Asia. His re-election, by acclamation, came as a recognition of his efforts to promote and elevate the sport regionally. He is expected to continue in his role until 2027, where he aims to further develop athletics in Asia, strengthening ties across the continent and building on Qatar’s successes.

Coe, who is also a candidate for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) presidency, praised Qatar’s global role in promoting sports excellence. His remarks underscored the nation’s impact on international sports, with Doha becoming a hub for world-class competitions. In his words, Qatar’s growth in sports is a testament to its strategic commitment to becoming a leader in athletic events and economic development.

With the 2030 Asian Games on the horizon, Qatar’s legacy in hosting premier sports events remains strong. The nation’s ongoing dedication to athletics aligns with the goals of the AAA, which, under Al-Hamad’s leadership, aims to inspire new generations of athletes and advance the region’s competitive standing on the world stage.