Ballon d’Or

winner Dembele
back in PSG
squad for UEFA
CL clash against
Leverkusen
PAGE 13
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2025

‘Arab Cup will bring back memories of historic World Cup’

T
HE FIFA Arab Cup purchase a Follow My Team December, 7pm, at the iconic
Qatar 2025 is set to JORDANIAN YAZAN AL NAIMAT LOOKS FORWARD TO FIFA ARAB CUP QATAR 2025 ticket, which will enable them Lusail Stadium. Other stadi-
take place in less than to attend all matches of their ums that will host matches
two months, bringing team of choice during the group during the tournament are Ah-
together top Arab teams from stage. All tickets are digital and mad Bin Ali, Education City,
the region to compete for the include accessible seating op- Khalifa International Stadium
coveted trophy. tions for disabled fans. and Stadium 974.
For Jordanian national Al Naimat is excited for Throughout the competi-
team player, Yazan Al Naimat, Qatar to showcase its hosting tion, fans will also be treated to
the tournament has brought capabilities as it gets ready to a variety of entertainment and
recognition to Arab football tal- welcome the world once again: cultural activities around Qa-
ents, while allowing the world “The Arab Cup will bring back tar. All venues are connected
to see the region’s true passion memories of a historic World seamlessly by public transport
for the game. Cup, where players and fans and will offer a barrier-free ex-
Speaking to the tourna- will be able to experience the perience to disabled fans.
ment’s Local Organising Com- country’s world-class infra- The FIFA Arab Cup Qatar
mittee (LOC), Al Naimat, who structure and high organisa- 2025 is part of several tourna-
also plays for Qatar Stars tional standards. We will be ments that Qatar will be host-
League side Al Arabi, said: playing in World Cup stadi- ing up until the end of the year,
“The Arab Cup is important for ums, which will truly be an un- including the FIFA U-17 World
the development of football in forgettable experience.” Cup Qatar 2025 from 3-27
the region. The success of this A total of 16 teams will have November. Qatar will also be
competition has created a huge a chance to lift the coveted hosting the second edition of
opportunity for Arab players FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 tro- the FIFA Intercontinental Cup
to showcase their talent on a phy. Nine of the highest FIFA on 10, 13, and 17 December.
global stage. It is an honour to ranked teams have qualified In addition to this year’s
represent Jordan at the pres- automatically, while 14 teams edition, Qatar will be hosting
tigious tournament.” will vie for the remaining 7 the FIFA Arab Cup again in
Since his debut for the na- spots in a series of qualifiers. 2029 and 2033.
tional team in 2021, Al Naimat goals during the competition, my all. I believe that when you their first match on 3 Decem- The qualifying matches will be For the FIFA Arab Cup Qa-
has emerged as one of Jor- and now hopes to build on this have true passion and dedica- ber, 8pm at Al Bayt Stadium, held ahead of the tournament tar 2025 match schedule, visit:
dan’s top goal-scorers, and is success in the upcoming edi- tion, you can conquer any- when they face the UAE during on 25-26 November in Qatar. www.roadtoqatar.qa
celebrated for leading Jordan tion. thing,” said Al Naimat. the group stage. The opening match will For all information related
to their first ever qualification “We are ready to showcase Jordan has been placed in Fans can purchase FIFA take place on 1 December, to FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025,
for the FIFA World Cup. In the our strength as a team, just as Group C, alongside Egypt, the Arab Cup Qatar 2025 tickets 7:30pm, at Al Bayt Stadium follow @arabcupqa and @
last edition of the FIFA Arab we did in the Asian Cup where UAE, and the winner of the exclusively on: www.roadtoqa- featuring hosts Qatar and the roadtoqatar on social media
Cup, Al Naimat was awarded we reached the final for the first qualifier between Mauritania tar.qa, with prices starting from winner of Palestine v Libya. platforms.
the Bronze Boot for scoring 3 time in our history. I will give it and Kuwait. Jordan will play QR 25. Supporters can also The Final will be held on 18  (Tribune News Network)

Al Wahda rally from a goal

down to upstage Al Duhail
AFC
ABU DHABI

HOSTS Al Wahda came back

from going a goal behind to
remain unbeaten in the AFC
Champions League Elite 2025-
26 as Jose Morais’ side notched
Al Sadd star Akram Afif arrives in Riyadh with the team ahead of their up a 3-1 win over Qatar’s Al Du-
AFC Champions League Elite clash against Al Hilal SFC on Tuesday. hail at Abu Dhabi’s Al Nahyan
Stadium on Monday.

Al Sadd to meet Kryzsztof Piatek had given

the visitors a 20th minute lead
but an Omar Khribin penalty
Al Hilal Saudi in 15 minutes later levelled the
scores before Brahima Diarra

Riyadh today
put Al Wahda in front two min-
utes into stoppage time and Ala
Zouhir hit a spectacular third
in the 67th minute.
AFC/TNN season led to the departure of The result moves Al Wahda
RIYADH head coach Felix Sanchez, with onto seven points from their
the Spaniard’s compatriot Ser- first three games while Al Du-
AL Hilal SFC will expect to stay gio Alegre taking charge. hail are still looking for their
on the winning ways when they Alegre couldn’t have picked first win, with Djamel Belma-
face Al Sadd SC in the AFC a tougher match to start his di’s side on one point.
Champions League Elite 2025- tenure but if Al Sadd do regis- Al Wahda had impressed
26 on Tuesday. ter a win, it could well spark a in the opening exchanges, only
The four-time Asian cham- turnaround in their fortunes. for Morais’ side to go behind.
pions are the only side in the “A tough and strong match Dusan Tadic sliced his close-
West Zone with a perfect re- awaits us against Al Hilal. We range effort wide of the Al Duhail
cord while Al Sadd opened have prepared well for this goal in the 12th minute after be-
their campaign with two draws. match, and I hope to perform ing played in on goal by Zouhir
Al Hilal will take to the at our best. We fear noth- as the home side made a positive
pitch with confidence as they ing. We have a distinguished start with the former Ajax Am- Action from the Al Wahda FC and Al Duhail AFC Champions League Elite match played at the Al Nahyan
are unbeaten in each of their group of players, and our goal sterdam playmaker to the fore. Stadium in Abdu Dhabi on Monday.
last 13 home games in the AFC is to play a strong match and Zouhir unlocked the visit-
Champions League Elite - with achieve a positive result,” said ing defence again three min- to find Adil Boulbina as he dived the wrong way. Al Wahda sealed the win
the last 11 being wins. Alegre while speaking to the utes later when he muscled his scampered towards the bye- Two minutes into time add- in spectacular fashion midway
Victory on Tuesday will media on eve of the match. way past the defence to clip in a line, the winger cutting the ball ed on at the end of the half, Al through the second half, Tadic
mean the outright longest win- Veteran player Hassan Al cross from the right that the un- back first time to set up Piatek Wahda went in front. seeing his shot from 25 yards
ning streak by any side at home Haydos said, “We know Al Hi- marked Caio Canedo slammed to push his shot over from in- Tadic’s clever flick over take a deflection off Cestelletto
in the competition, a record lal’s strengths and weaknesses. over the bar from 15 yards out. side the six yard box. the defence found Diarra and, and Zouhir reacted, springing
currently shared with Japan’s We must give our all and com- It was against the run of Jean-Charles Castelletto’s while his initial attempt was into the air to launch an un-
Yokohama F. Marinos. Al Hilal, plete focus during the match. play, then, that Al Duhail took pull on Khribin’s shirt saw ref- headed away by defender stoppable overhead strike be-
however, are winless in their last “After Al Annabi qualified the lead as the halfway point in eree Gulmurodi Sadullo point Youssef Ayman, the midfield- yond the helpless goalkeeper.
two meetings with Al Sadd but for the World Cup, the morale the half approached. to the penalty spot and the er’s persistence ensured he net- Scoreline: Al Wahda 3 (Omar
did beat the Qatari champions has become better, and I hope Sultan Al Brake’s perfect Syria international showed no ted at the second attempt from Khribin 35’ (Penalty), Brahima
in the two matches prior to that. it will be reflected in the players pass from 35 yards out sliced hesitation to slam his spot- a tight angle after sidestepping Diarra 45+2’, Ala Zhir 67’) bt Al
Al Sadd’s slow start to the against Al Hilal,” he added. through the Al Wahda defence kick beyond Arthur Desmas as Desmas’ dive. Duhail 1 (Krzysztof Piatek 20’).

Al Gharafa go down 0-4 to Al Ahli in Jeddah

AFC second defeat. then stretched out his telescopic nod home six minutes later.
JEDDAH Al Gharafa, despite being leg to prevent the Algerian from A flowing move in the 41st
the visitors, took the game to Al the opening goal. minute saw Al Ahli further ex-
SAUDI Arabia’s Al Ahli Saudi Ahli with Joselu flashing a half An injury to Fabricio Diaz, tend their lead, Kessie feeding
FC returned to winning ways volley wide of Edouard Mendy’s which led to the midfielder’s Mahrez on the right with the
after notching a 4-0 victory goal before Ferjani Sassi’s back- substitution at the half-hour latter returning the favour for
against Qatar’s Al Gharafa SC heel pass sent Yacine Brahimi mark, put Al Gharafa in a state the former to smash home on
in the AFC Champions League through with Enzo Millot doing of disarray with Al Ahli taking the run.
Elite 2025-26 on Monday. well in tracking back to stop the advantage to open the scoring The second half proved
Held to a 2-2 draw by Qa- midfielder. two minutes later when Millot to be a more cagey affair be-
tar’s Al Duhail SC on Matchday The early nerves faded for swept home a Matheus Gon- fore substitute Saleh Alshamat
Two, three goals in the space of Al Ahli as they started to create calves cross from the left. wrapping up the points in the
nine first half minutes sent the chances with Riyad Mahrez’s Al Ahli were now oozing con- 76th minute after he was sent
reigning champions on the road drilled free-kick in the 14th fidence with Goncalves earning racing clear by Ivan Toney,
to victory as they moved onto minute pushed away by the gi- his second assist after he surged rounding Ababacar before slot-
seven points with Al Gharafa ant frame of Khalifa Ababacar past Mason Holgate before clip- ting the ball into an unguarded Al Ahli SFC’s Enzo Millot celebrates scoring the opening goal against Al
four adrift after suffering their before the Al Gharafa custodian ping a cross for Franck Kessie to goalmouth. Gharafa in the AFC Champions League Elite tie in Jeddah on Monday.
 Sports Tuesday, October 21, 2025 13

Enrique delighted to have

Dembele back in PSG squad
Hjulmand backs
Leverkusen for
Champions
Barcelona Coach Hansi Flick attends a press conference, ahead of Tues-
day’s UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg match against League tie vs Paris
Borussia Dortmund. (DPA)
PA MEDIA/DPA
Flick says he has ‘completely LONDON

changed’ since becoming

LUIS Enrique expressed his
delight at Ousmane Dembele’s
return to the Paris St Germain
Barcelona boss squad ahead of their Champi-
ons League clash with Bayer
Leverkusen.
PA MEDIA/DPA ly. We need to minimise risks, The Ballon d’Or winner
LONDON and playing Ferran tomorrow has been sidelined with a ham-
would be too much of a risk. string injury but has been list-
HEAD coach Hansi Flick says he “We’re at a difficult mo- ed in PSG’s 21-man squad for
has been “completely changed” ment, with a lot of injured play- Tuesday’s trip to Leverkusen.
by his time at Barcelona as the ers and others who have re- Asked about Dembele’s
club seek to get their bid to reach turned but are still not at 100%. inclusion, Luis Enrique was
the Champions League knock- “Nevertheless, our goal is pleased to have more options
out phase back on track. always the same: to fight until returning to his team. Paris Saint-Germain’s Ousmane Dembele. The Ballon d’Or winner has been sidelined with a hamstring injury
Barcelona opened with a the end, give everything, win, He said: “You are very fo- but has been listed in PSG’s 21-man squad for Tuesday’s trip to Leverkusen. (DPA)
victory over Newcastle United and take all three points. cused on the Ballon d’Or, Ous-
but lost at home to reigning Eu- “Right now it’s a compli- mane Dembele is the same “We need to manage the a hard-fought 4-3 Bundesliga portunities for us at the back.
ropean champions Paris Saint- cated situation, and that’s why person, the same player. He is match carefully, but we are win over Mainz. We have confidence in our own
Germain earlier this month. the three points against Girona different from others. We are used to that because we face Hjulmand said: “PSG is game and I think we will have
They face Greek champions were so important. delighted to have him back in different situations in football- perhaps the best team in the our opportunities.”
Olympiacos on Tuesday fresh “But the team is doing well, the squad and also Marquinhos ing terms. world. They have won five ti- Apart from PSG’s class,
from a victory over local rivals in great spirits, and I like the and Desire Doue, who came “So we are calm and ready. tles this calendar year. We have matters are complicated for
Girona where German boss atmosphere. We have a young back last week. We have the final training ses- great respect and it will be a Leverkusen because Malik Till-
Flick was sent off. team and we needed that. “So it is important for the sion today to see how players difficult task. man, Lucas Vázquez and Na-
Asked about the incident, We’ve analysed the match and team and the players to have are doing and play the match “But we are also happy be- than Tella are injured.
Flick said at a pre-match press we know we need to position players back, it gives us op- tomorrow.” cause games in the Champions Jonas Hofmann and Mar-
conference on Monday: “It’s ourselves better, run more, and tions. It doesn’t change any- Leverkusen boss Kasper League are always nice. We are tin Terrier, who did well in
true that I show my emotions press better.” thing because it is about how Hjulmand backed his side playing at home and definitely Saturday’s 4-3 Bundesliga win
more than before, but this Midfielder Fermin Lopez the players feel today and we to have “confidence” in their want to show our qualities. We at Mainz, are not registered for
club has completely changed returned to the team after in- will see how it goes tomorrow.” game ahead of the PSG clash. will give everything for victory. the league phase in Europe.
me. Maybe I should control jury in the victory over Girona, PSG are third in the league A tricky start to their Cham- “PSG is a team with top Striker Patrik Schick and
my impulses, but I love Barca, and said: “It’s a really special phase standings having won pions League campaign sees quality in all positions and in defender Jarell Quansah were
(the city of) Barcelona, and its week (ahead) because we’ve got their opening two games Leverkusen sat in the elimina- all phases of the game. They back in team training on Mon-
people, and that’s why I always two huge games. against Atalanta and Barcelona. tion places with only two points have a good build-up from the day but their participation re-
give my all.” Danish defender “It’ll be a tough match, it’s Looking ahead to Lev- from back-to-back draws. back, play direct and fast, are mains to be seen.
Andreas Christensen is a doubt the Champions League, after all. erkusen, Luis Enrique said: Their last outing in the good in one-on-one and very “We will see tomorrow. It
for Tuesday due to illness, We’re coming off a defeat to PSG “They have quality, they can competition ended in a 1-1 aggressive in pressing. is getting better every day but
while Raphinha and Ferran and we need to play well, get also defend deep and also play draw with PSV and they enter “It is a weapon of theirs, but nothing is certain yet,” Hjul-
Torres continued their recov- back into our rhythm and win.” with a press. Tuesday’s match on the back of it also presents risks and op- mand said.
ery away from the main first- Like Barca, Olympiacos are
team group. second in their domestic stand-
Flick added: “We hope Fer- ings, but they have just one
ran and Raphinha can be avail-
able for El Clasico (against Real
Madrid on Sunday).
Champions League point on
the board so far after a draw at
home to Pafos and defeat away
Arteta admits he looks up to Simeone
“We’ll have to take it slow- to Arsenal.
as Arsenal host Atletico Madrid
Klopp says future Liverpool PA MEDIA/DPA
LONDON

return ‘theoretically possible’ MIKEL Arteta called rival boss

Diego Simeone “outstanding”
PA MEDIA/DPA and admitted he looks up to
LONDON him ahead of Arsenal’s Cham-
pions League match against
JURGEN Klopp says it is “theo- Atletico Madrid. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.
retically possible” that he could Arteta will lock horns with (PA Wire/DPA)
one day return as Liverpool Simeone for the first time in
manager. their group clash at the Emirates urday allowing them to estab-
The 58-year-old walked on Tuesday as the Arsenal man- lish a three-point cushion over
away from Anfield in 2024, ager bids to build on two wins Manchester City. Liverpool are a
ending a transformative nine- for his side in Europe so far. point back following their home
year spell at the club that in- Juergen Klopp during an awards Arteta’s managerial style defeat to Manchester United.
cluded a Champions League event in Hamburg in August. (DPA) has drawn comparisons with Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone attends the team’s press con- Arteta’s men are the favour-
success and the Reds’ first Simeone, who is now in his ference at the Emirates Stadium in London on Monday ahead of Tues- ites with bookmakers to win
league title in 30 years. possible.” 15th season in charge of the La day’s UEFA Champions League match against Arsenal. (PA Wire/DPA) their first league title in 22 years.
He has not worked as a He went on: “I’m 58, that Liga outfit. And Arteta added: “It is
head coach since but has taken means I could make the de- “Obviously he is some- something that’s incredible so try it and feel it, but I’m very sure true that the team shows a dif-
on roles as head of global soc- cision in a few years, I don’t one that I look up to and have it’ll be a pleasure to meet him.” that his know-how is unbeliev- ferent kind of maturity, threat
cer with the Red Bull group and know. Do I have to make the learned from him in many situ- On his last visit to England, able and his character and will- and probably conviction at this
in an advisory capacity with the decision today? Then I will not ations,” said Arteta of the Ar- Simeone was handed a one- ingness will take him anywhere.” stage but it’s still very early in
German Football League. Liv- coach again. But thank God, I gentine. match touchline ban by UEFA Arsenal have opened their the season. We have to do it
erpool won the Premier League don’t have to do that. I can just “I rate him at the highest after he clashed with Liverpool Champions League campaign now for another 30 games and
last season under Arne Slot but see what the future brings.” level. What he’s done since he supporters at the end of a 3-2 with consecutive 2-0 victories that’s going to be the objective.
many fans who revere Klopp Pressed on what circum- got to Atletico has been out- defeat for his side at Anfield in against Athletic Bilbao and “The only thing that I em-
would welcome the notion stance would have to unfold to standing. Not only what he has September. Simeone said he re- Olympiacos. A third win against brace is when I see the team,
that he may eventually pick up draw him back to the dugout, achieved but the way he’s done gretted the incident. Simeone’s side under the lights the energy, the temperature, the
where he left off. Klopp admitted he was not in- it - the identity he has created at Asked if he could envisage of the Emirates would send out a commitment and the quality that
In a wide-ranging interview stantly drawn to getting back the club, to the team, the spirit, Simeone managing in the Pre- statement of intent that Arsenal they can deliver, that it gives me
on The Diary of a CEO podcast, in thick of the job. “I don’t even they are very simple and clear to mier League, Arteta continued: are serious contenders to win that conviction that we can go all
he told Steven Bartlett: “I said I know exactly, I love what I do identify and that’s because the “If he works in the Champions the competition for the first time the way but that’s it, that’s just a
will never coach another team, right now,” he said. “I don’t manager is very much them.” League, which is the highest in their history. feeling, and then the next day you
a different team, in England. miss coaching; I don’t miss “That’s extremely difficult to competition in Europe, he can Arsenal are also leading the have to prove it, the next training
So that means if then it’s Liver- standing in the rain for two- achieve for a short period of do it anywhere. way in the Premier League with session you have to prove it, and
pool ... yeah. “Theoretically it’s and-a-half or three hours.” time and to do it for 14 years, is “You have to come here and a 1-0 triumph at Fulham on Sat- nothing else matters.”

Mbappe nets late Real winner; Leao double sends Milan top of Serie A
PA MEDIA/DPA There were three other ner four minutes from time, as ma and Atalanta v Lazio games
LONDON games in the Spanish top flight AC Milan came from behind to both ended 0-0.
on a day when players contin- beat Fiorentina 2-1 and return Ligue 1 bottom side Metz
KYLIAN Mbappe scored a ued to protest against LaLiga’s to the top of Serie A. are still awaiting their first win
late winner as Real Madrid decision to sanction a match Robin Gosens had put after slumping to a 4-0 loss at
returned to the top of LaLiga between Barcelona and Villar- Fiorentina ahead at the San Toulouse.
with a 1-0 victory at nine-man real in Miami. Siro, 10 minutes into the sec- Frank Magri and Aron
Getafe on Sunday. Players made their disap- ond half. Donnum scored inside the
Getafe were frustrating proval known by refusing to Meanwhile, Como claimed first eight minutes, while Yann
their big city neighbours until move for the first 15 seconds a stunning first victory over Gboho and Charlie Cresswell
substitute Allan Nyom was sent after kick-off in matches. Juventus since 1952 with a 2-0 also netted and the visitors had
off following a clash with Vin- In those other fixtures, win at the Giuseppe Sinigaglia Sadibou Sane sent off.
icius Junior, 13 minutes from Elche v Athletic Bilbao - teams Stadium. Samson Baidoo scored the
time. that are seventh and eighth re- Marc-Oliver Kempf and winner as Lens moved up to
Mbappe took advantage to spectively - finished goalless, Nico Paz scored as Cesc Fab- fourth with a 2-1 win over Paris
score three minutes later and while Celta Vigo and Real So- regas’ side climbed above Juve FC, while the game of the day
Getafe’s woes were compound- ciedad drew 1-1 and Rayo Val- into sixth. saw Lorient and Brest draw 3-3.
ed when Alex Sancris was also lecano won 3-0 at Levante. Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe and Getafe’s Juan Iglesias (R) battle Bologna are one place above Rennes and Auxerre also
dismissed for a second book- In Italy, Rafael Leao scored for the ball during their Spanish Primera Division match at Coliseum them in fifth after a 2-0 win at drew 2-2 and Lille claimed a
able offence. twice, including a penalty win- Alfonso Perez in Getafe on Sunday. (ZUMA Press Wire/DPA) Cagliari, while the Genoa v Par- 2-1 success at Nantes.
14 Tuesday, October 21, 2025 Sports
QATAR BEAT KUWAIT IN FIP ASIA PADEL CUP QUARTERS

Hosts Qatar earned two wins over Kuwait as the four seeded teams in the men’s Final 8 of the FIP Asia Padel Cup lived up to expectations at the Khalifa Tennis and Squash International Complex on Monday. Qatar, Iran,
United Arab Emirates and Australia all started with victories. In Group A, Iran won all three matches without dropping a set against Jordan, while the United Arab Emirates claimed a 2–1 win over Lebanon, which managed
to take the final match of the tie. In Group B, Australia secured three victories — the second featuring Pat Rafter, partnering Vuk Velickovic, who won in straight sets.
In the women’s section, Japan and Iran (Group A) made winning starts in the quarter-finals with each taking three wins out of three, Japan against Saudi Arabia, and Iran against the United Arab Emirates. In Group B, Indo-
nesia claimed a 3–0 victory over Australia, while Thailand completed a comeback after losing their opening match against the Philippines. The second round of ties is scheduled for Tuesday.

Salt & Brook set up Piastri bullish over F1 title chances

impressive England
win over NZ despite seeing lead cut in Austin
AGENCIES fielding performance - Jimmy PA MEDIA/DPA
CHRISTCHURCH Neesham put down a simple AUSTIN, TEXAS
chance to dismiss Brook at
PHIL Salt and Harry Brook long-on - and rendered the OSCAR Piastri remains confi-
powered England to a domi- Black Caps bowling helpless dent in his Formula One world
nant 65-run victory over New when in full flow. championship chances after
Zealand in the second T20 on Brook’s hitting left New Lando Norris and Max Ver-
Monday, giving the tourists a Zealand needing their high- stappen slashed his lead at the
1-0 series lead with one match est T20 chase and they rarely United States Grand Prix.
to play, reports BBCSport. threatened, despite a decent Piastri endured a difficult
The pair combined for 129 start giving them a platform at weekend in Austin, colliding
in 69 balls as the visitors im- 87-2 after nine overs. with McLaren team-mate Nor-
pressively piled up 236-4 - the The ever-reliable Adil ris in Saturday’s sprint as both
highest score made at Christch- Rashid took 4-32 while Eng- were dumped out before man-
urch’s Hagley Oval in T20 in- land’s catching was clinical. aging only fifth in the race as
ternationals and England’s The hosts were bowled out for Verstappen eased to victory.
fifth highest in the format. 171 in 18 overs. Norris’ second-place fin-
Opener Salt continued his England can clinch the se- ish meant he cut the gap to
superb form with 85 from 56 ries in the third match in Auck- Piastri to just 14 points, while
balls, but it was captain Brook land on Thursday. Verstappen’s 33 points across
who was the more destructive in Scores: England 236 for 4 (Salt the weekend saw him reduce
striking five sixes in a 35-ball 78. 85, Brook 78) beat New Zealand his deficit to the leader by 23
He punished an uncharac- 171 (Seifert 39, Rashid 4-32) by points to 40.
teristically sloppy New Zealand 65 runs. Momentum is not with the
Australian as he finished be- Australian formula one driver Oscar Piastri of the McLaren Team drives during a practice session of the For-
hind both Norris and Verstap- mula 1 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. (ZUMA Press Wire/DPA)
pen for the fourth race in a row.
Neither McLaren driver has ent since then. Norris’ hopes of victory were “Ultimately, if we can find
won since Zandvoort five races “I’ve been in fights that were undone by losing out to Charles our way again, find our pace,
ago - after which Verstappen as close or at this point even Leclerc at the start and he had to certainly for me find our pace
was 104 points off the lead. closer than what they are now. overcome a race-long duel with again, then I don’t have any ma-
Piastri, a former F2 and F3 So I’ve got the evidence for my- the Ferrari driver to clinch sec- jor concerns.”
champion, acknowledges the self that things can still turn out ond in the closing stages. Verstappen wrote off his ti-
need to turn around his form well and I still fully believe that I What has appeared a two- tle chances prior to the summer
but remains happy with his po- can win the championship. way title fight for the entire break and admits he would not
sition with five rounds remain- “This weekend has obvi- season is now a three-way bat- have believed it if he had been
ing and 141 points to fight for. ously been tough and the gap tle, but Piastri remains relaxed told after Zandvoort that he
“I’d still rather be where I has come down a little bit in the about the threat of Verstappen. would be only 40 points behind
am than the other two,” Piastri last few weekends.” Pole-sitter “You know, there’s still a with four races remaining.
said. Verstappen completed a perfect long way to go in the champi- “I would have thought he
“Definitely Max and Red weekend at the Circuit of the onship,” he added. “It is still, was an idiot!” he said. “We
Bull have found a lot of pace Americas, having also won Sat- for Max anyway, he’s obviously found a good way with the car,
Phil Salt and Harry Brook of England during their 129 run stand in since the summer break as well. urday’s sprint from pole, by eas- chased it down pretty quick, but simple as that.
the second T20I against New Zealand at the Hagley Oval in Christch- We saw flashes of it at the start ing to a lights-to-flag win by al- it’s not exactly a small gap with “We need to be perfect until
urch on Monday. of the year, but it’s been consist- most eight seconds from Norris. five rounds to go. the end to have a chance.”

Pakistan 259-5 on Day 1 Athapaththu powers Sri Lanka women

against SA at Rawalpindi to thrilling 7-run win over Bangladesh
ANI Maharaj after scoring 16 off 22
RAWALPINDI balls, featuring three boundaries. ANI Captain Nigar Sultana and
At Tea, Pakistan were 177/3, MUMBAI Sharmin Akhter then stead-
PAKISTAN were 259 for 5 at with Masood looking in control. ied the innings with an 82-run
stumps on Day 1 of the second He, however, was dismissed in BANGLADESH suffered partnership. However, Akhter
Test against South Africa at the final session after a solid 87 a heartbreak as Sri Lanka had to retire hurt after her well-
Rawalpindi with Saud Shakeel off 176 balls, which included two snatched victory from the jaws made 64, and despite contribu-
and Salman Agha at the crease. fours and three sixes. Moham- of defeat, winning by seven tions from Shorna Akter (19)
Pakistan are leading the two mad Rizwan added 19 runs be- runs in a nail-biting finish at the and Ritu Moni, Bangladesh fell
match series 1-0 after winning fore being dismissed on the final DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai short in the tense finish.
the first Test by 93 runs at at wicket of the day. on Monday. Captain Chamari Earlier, after opting to bat
Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore last Saud Shakeel remained un- Athapaththu was the star of the first, Sri Lanka too faced early
week. beaten on 42 off 105 deliveries, show, delivering an all-round trouble, losing Vishmi Gu-
Opener Abdullah Shafique while Salman Agha was 10 not masterclass to keep Sri Lanka’s naratne on the very first ball of
and Pakistan captain Shaan out from 25 balls at stumps. semi-final hopes alive in the the innings but skipper Athapa-
Masood scored half-centuries For South Africa, Keshav ICC Women’s World Cup. ththu led from the front, scor-
after Pakistan won the toss and Maharaj and Simon Harmer With Bangladesh needing ing a fluent 46 off 43 balls, in-
opted to bat first. claimed two wickets each, while just 9 runs off the final over, cluding six fours and two sixes,
Imam-ul-Haq was dismissed pacer Kagiso Rabada picked up Athapaththu took matters into and stitching a 72-run partner-
for 17 by South African spinner 1/41. Pakistan will look to build her own hands. Bowling the ship with Hasini Perera.
Simon Harmer before Shafique on their foundation on Day 2 last over, she conceded only a Captain Chamari Athapaththu was the star of the show, delivering an Perera (85) and Nilakshika
and Masood stitched a 111-run and set a challenging total for the single run while taking three all-round masterclass to keep Sri Lanka’s semi-final hopes alive in the Silva (37) also contributed cru-
partnership for the 2nd wicket. Proteas. wickets and being involved in a ICC Women’s World Cup. cial runs before Sri Lanka suf-
Shafique contributing a well- Scores: Pakistan 259 for 5 run-out, sealing a dramatic win fered a late collapse, slipping
made 57 off 146 balls, including (Masood 87, Shafique 57, Maha- for her side. catch to Silva, who had already to face the final delivery but from 174/5 to 202 all out in
four boundaries, before getting raj 2-63, Harmer 2-75) vs South The over began with Ra- produced a brilliant run-out couldn’t connect, resulting in a 48.4 overs. Shorna Akter was
out. Babar Azam fell to Keshav Africa. beya Khan trapped LBW on the just a ball earlier. Sri Lanka dot ball and sealing Sri Lanka’s the standout bowler for Bang-
very first ball. The next delivery completed a team hat-trick, victory. ladesh, returning impressive
saw Nahida Akter run out by and Athapaththu claimed her At one stage, Bangladesh figures of 3/27 in her ten overs.
a sharp direct hit from Nilak- third wicket of the innings.
Quick read shika Silva as she tried to give The fourth ball saw Marufa
needed just 12 runs off 12 balls
but failed to cross the line, los-
Despite the batting stut-
ters, Sri Lanka’s bowlers, led
the strike to her skipper Nigar Akter trapped LBW, giving ing their composure under by Athapaththu’s brilliance,
US GP to remain on F1 calendar until 2034 Sultana. Though Sultana got Athapaththu her fourth wicket pressure. ensured a memorable win, one
The United States Grand Prix will remain on the Formula One calen- the strike, Sri Lanka managed and career-best figures of 4/42 Earlier in the chase of 203, that keeps their campaign alive
dar until the 2034 season, F1 said in a statement on Sunday, just a crucial dot ball, bringing the in 10 overs. Bangladesh needed Bangladesh endured a shaky in thrilling fashion.
a few hours ahead of this year’s race. The race at the Circuit of the equation down to 9 off 4. 9 off the last two deliveries, start, losing Rubya Haider for a Scores: Sri Lanka 202 (Hasini
Americas in Austin has become a traditional event since its debut in Sultana, who in total scored Nishita Akter Nishi managed duck with just two runs on the 85, Athapaththu 46, Shorna
2012. F1 has recently expanded their presence in the US with the 77 off 98 balls (six boundaries), a single, bringing down the board. Fargana Hoque followed 3-27, Rabeya 2-39) beat Ban-
addition of the Miami GP and the Las Vegas GP as they try to reach lofted the third ball of the over equation to 8 off the last ball. soon after for 7, and Sobhana gadesh 195 for 9 (Sultana 77,
bigger audiences in the country. (DPA) to long-off but couldn’t clear Sharmin Akhter, who had ear- Mostary’s dismissal for 8 left Sharmin 64*, Athapaththu 4-42)
the ropes, handing a simple lier retired hurt on 64, returned Bangladesh struggling at 44/3. by seven runs.
 Nation Tuesday, October 21, 2025 15

WCM-Q, MoPH, MCIT congress showcases future

of AI and technological innovation in healthcare
TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK collaboration as world-re- expert speakers also included
DOHA nowned leaders in AI, health- representatives of the Univer-
care and innovation from sity of Amsterdam, Stanford
WEILL Cornell Medicine-Qa- across the globe connected and University in California, Tufts
tar (WCM-Q), in collaboration shared their latest research University in Boston, Monash
with the Ministry of Public and clinical experiences in University in Melbourne, Aus-
Health (MoPH) and the Minis- utilising new technologies for tralia, and Aspetar in Doha.
try of Communications and In- real-world applications in the Dr. Capodilupo, recognised
formation Technology (MCIT), healthcare sphere. for her pioneering work in wear-
successfully hosted the prestig- PHIE-2025 built upon the able health technology, present-
ious PHIE-2025: AI & TECH success of the 2024 congress, ed on the role of personal wear-
for Enhancing Healthspans & which was held in São Paulo, ables in optimising metabolic
Women’s Health Congress. Brazil. Bringing the event to health and overall wellness.
A highlight of the opening Doha emphasises the emer- Her address focused on
session was the keynote speech sition from research into clini- healthcare research and tech- ers, and innovators to explore gence of Qatar as a thriving hub how AI-powered devices are
delivered by Minister of Public cal implementation possible nological innovation. the future of healthcare, with for innovation in healthcare, empowering individuals to
Health His Excellency Man- and effective; allowing discov- Dr. Sheikh highlighted how a particular focus on precision AI, and education. take control of their health with
soor bin Ebrahim bin Saad Al ery to move from the lab to the AI-powered precision medicine medicine, artificial intelligence The conference featured real-time, data-driven insights.
Mahmoud. bedside.” could play a pivotal role in en- (AI), enhanced healthspans distinguished keynote speak- Throughout the event, at-
The minister shared Qatar’s He added, “Within our na- hancing healthspans. and the evolving role of wom- ers, including Dr. Emmanouil tendees had the opportunity to
strategic focus on advancing tional strategy, we are focus- He said, “The convergence en’s health in shaping global Dermitzakis, president of the experience live demonstrations
healthcare technologies and ing our precision health efforts of AI, precision medicine, and well-being. Qatar Precision Health Insti- of cutting-edge healthcare tech-
underscored the importance of on four priority areas: cancer, technological innovation pro- Held over two days, the tute and Co-founder & CEO of nologies. These demonstrations
AI in shaping the future of the obesity, type 2 diabetes, and vides unprecedented opportu- congress featured in-depth dis- Antithesis Therapeutics, and showcased how these innova-
nation’s healthcare landscape. rare diseases. These conditions nities to improve health out- cussions, live demonstrations, Dr. Emily Capodilupo, senior tions are poised to revolutionise
He said, “Over the past represent some of the largest comes globally. At WCM-Q, we and presentations of cutting- vice-president of Research, Al- healthcare delivery, enabling
decade, and with the guid- health burdens in our society are proud to be at the forefront edge technologies that are rev- gorithms, and Data at WHOOP. more personalised, efficient,
ance and encouragement of and the greatest opportunities of this dialogue, particularly olutionizing healthcare. Dr. Dermitzakis, an author- and effective treatment options
our leadership, we built strong to apply genomics and preci- with regards to women’s health Key topics included AI- ity on bioinformatics, compu- for individuals worldwide.
foundations for our national sion approaches for earlier and optimising healthspans. powered diagnostics, personal- tational biology and the genetic The congress also empha-
precision-medicine strategy: detection, more effective treat- The future of healthcare is not ised wearables, lifestyle medi- causes and mechanisms of sised personal wellness, offer-
the Qatar Biobank, the Qatar ment, and better prevention.” merely about treating illness cine, metabolic optimisation, human disease, explored the ing attendees yoga and breath-
Genome, high-performance The event commenced with but about enhancing the over- and the application of precision intersection of AI, genomics, ing sessions, a quiet health
computing, advanced clini- opening remarks by Dr. Javaid all well-being of individuals medicine to improve women’s and personalised healthcare in zone, and a conference experi-
cal labs, and a growing team Sheikh, dean of Weill Cornell across all stages of life.” health, mental health, and over- a keynote that outlined the na- ence enhanced by mindful de-
of scientists, clinicians, and Medicine-Qatar, who empha- This transformative event all health outcomes worldwide. tional vision of Qatar regarding sign which aimed to promote
data specialists. We have also sised the importance of fos- brought together global health- The event also provided a precision health. comfort, mental clarity and
worked hard to make the tran- tering global collaboration in care and tech leaders, research- platform for networking and The international panel of collaboration.

QU announces launch of its QU and British Embassy launch AI

2025–2030 research priorities project for humanitarian resilience
TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK
DOHA DOHA

QATAR University (QU) has announced the QATAR University (QU), in col-
launch of its research priorities for 2025-2030 laboration with the British Em-
as part of ongoing efforts to enhance its posi- bassy in Doha, officially launched
tion as a leading national institution in academic the ‘Artificial Intelligence in
and research excellence with a prestigious global Qatar’s Humanitarian Sector’
reputation. Through these priorities, the uni- project — a pioneering initiative
versity aims to elevate the national scientific re- that aims to harness the power
search system and direct research efforts toward of artificial intelligence (AI) to
research axes that align with the goals of Qatar strengthen humanitarian aid,
National Vision 2030, including human, social, crisis response and resilience-
economic, and environmental development. dent for Research and Graduate Studies, em- building in Qatar and beyond.
These priorities embody a comprehensive phasized that colleges and research centres play The launch ceremony cele- ners. Their participation un- Together, we are demonstrating
strategy designed to drive research and innovation, a pivotal role in implementing these research brated this landmark partnership derscored QU’s commitment how technology can be used as
promote sustainability, and enhance QU’s role in priorities through strategic planning, directing and highlighted the shared vi- to building impactful interna- a force for good — empowering
serving society through five main research pillars: research efforts, and aligning research grants sion between QU and the British tional partnerships that drive preparedness, resilience, and
Health, Energy, Digital Technology, Resource Sus- and graduate programs with the specified pri- Embassy to advance innovation, research-based solutions to effective response when crises
tainability, and Society. orities. He added that QU continues to promote research and global collabora- global challenges. strike. Dr. Kwalombota, First
On the occasion of launching the research interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary research, tion in humanitarian technology. Prof. Hanan Abdul Rahim Secretary for Development at
priorities, Dr. Omar Al-Ansari, President of QU, student participation in research projects, and During the event, a cooperation stated, “At the College of Health the UK’s Foreign, Common-
stated, “We are proud to launch our research building strategic local and international part- agreement was signed between Sciences, we strive to conduct wealth and Development Of-
priorities for the period 2025-2030, which re- nerships with academic and industrial institu- the British Embassy and QU to research defined by creativ- fice (FCDO), added, “This is a
flect QU’s commitment to producing impactful tions to achieve qualitative results with tangible formally commence the project ity, collaboration, and purpose. transformative step forward.
knowledge that serves society. These priorities impact in various scientific and innovative fields and to unite efforts toward lever- Through initiatives like this The QATAR Project showcases
also contribute to building an integrated system and elevates the quality of higher education and aging AI for social good. project, we are working with our how QU and the British Em-
for scientific research governance by investing its research outputs. The ceremony was attended partners to explore how artifi- bassy are shaping a futuristic
research resources and directing them effectively In turn, Prof. Bassem Hammadi, Director of by the Deputy Head of Mission cial intelligence can strengthen approach to humanitarian re-
toward achieving impact in various sectors. This Research Planning and Development at the Re- of the British Embassy, along humanitarian action and re- silience through AI.”
approach enhances the university’s contribution search and Graduate Studies Sector, explained that with senior leadership from silience in real-world settings. Following the ceremony,
to achieving Qatar’s national goals and establish- the updated research priorities were developed QU, including Prof. Asmaa Our engagement in this area re- Qatar University hosted the
ing its global position in research and innovation. based on a precise scientific methodology that re- Al-Thani, vice president for flects our commitment to align inaugural Technical Working
Through these priorities, QU continues to af- lied on Qatar’s Third National Development Strat- Health and Medical Sciences research with global innovation Group (TWG) meeting un-
firm its role as a beacon of scientific research that egy and the strategies of relevant ministries. The and director of the Biomedical and real-world needs.” der this AI project. The TWG
looks toward future horizons, contributes to fos- process also included reviewing the university’s Research Center; Prof. Aiman The Deputy Head of Mis- brought together representa-
tering a knowledge-based society, and supports previous priorities (2021-2025), aligning them with Erbad, vice president for Re- sion of the British Embassy tives from leading national and
the national aspirations for comprehensive and global research trends, using Scopus database in- search and Graduate Studies; emphasized the importance of international institutions and
sustainable development. It is a clear roadmap dicators, and analysing the research capabilities of Prof. Hanan Abdul Rahim, the collaboration, stating, “This organizations engaged in hu-
toward a brighter future for the State of Qatar, QU researchers. Prof. Hammadi explained that dean of the College of Health initiative is a testament to the manitarian work. The Depart-
reflecting our continued commitment to excel- the new priorities focus on five research pillars Sciences; and Dr. Karam Turk- strong and evolving partnership ment of Public Health and the
lence and leadership in scientific research and that align with national needs and global chal- Adawi, head of the Depart- between the United Kingdom College of Health Sciences at
innovation fields.” lenges, aiming to build a research future based ment of Public Health, as well and Qatar in science, research, QU are leading this transform-
For his part, Prof. Aiman Erbad, Vice Presi- on innovation that serves the state’s priorities. as faculty members and part- and humanitarian innovation. ative initiative.

Carnegie Mellon Qatar honours 159 students for academic excellence

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK the dedication of students who Kensouh, Azizjon Samandarov,
DOHA have reached the highest aca- Akniyet Serikbay, Mahnoor
demic standards. We are ex- Sethi, Ashwaq Taib, Sunaya
CARNEGIE Mellon Univer- tremely proud of their accom- Upadhyay, and Jemal Velih-
sity in Qatar (CMU-Q), a Qa- plishments and look forward to anova.
tar Foundation (QF) partner seeing them continue to thrive Senior honourees: Abrar
university, recognised the in their academic and profes- Tasneem Abir, Aziza Abugali-
outstanding academic perfor- sional pursuits. yeva, Amna Alhetmi, Aisha
mance of 159 students who First-years honoured on Al-Khaldi, Alya Al Issa, Mo-
were named to the Dean’s List the Spring 2025 Dean’s List in- hammed Al Mansouri, Almaha
for the spring 2025 semester. clude: Aljori Abdulla, Moham- Alnassr, Aina AlObaidan, Sal-
The honourees include 38 first- med Al-Ali, Habiba Almosal- man Al-Saigh, Najoud Al-Tal-
years, 37 sophomores, 53 jun- lam, Hind Almuraikhi, Haya Al ib, Alanoud Al Thani, Shahad
iors, and 31 seniors. Qatami, Maryam Al-Shahwani, tov, and Kinley Yangzom. ronshokh Kalandarov, Yasmi- Ruba Al Mahmoud, Abdulaziz Astaneh, Bendou Bouchra,
The Dean’s List ceremony Shareefa AlSulaiti, Maya Al- Sophomore honorees: na Kalash, Ravin Kumar, Eman Al Mannai, Ahmad Al-Obaid- Phat Diep, Mohamad El Ghali,
is held twice each academic Taji, Hissa Al-Thani, Mirab- Shahd Abu Alhasan, Yousef Masood, Razan Murshid, Ce- an, Jawaher Khaled Alsayed, Sarim Faraz, May Khin, Ha Le,
year to celebrate students who bos Anorqulov, Rasha Arabi, Abu Dayeh, Kehinde Adeogun, line Rakab, Wassim Rakab, Dema Al Shirawi, Nour Alseaf, Jullia Andrei Montejo, Sara
have demonstrated exceptional Mohammad Arif, Abdullah Ar- Ameera Ahmedullah, Jawaher Laiba Sameer, Abdul Rahman Moza Al Thani, Safa Amin, Mubarak, Hanna Qasim, Mary-
academic achievement in the shad, Aun Ashraf, Rashid Bad- Aldosari, Raghd Al Khalifa, Shaar, Mohamed Waiel Shikfa, Sheentaro Borras, Julia Nicole am Rahmatullah, Anushka Sat-
previous semester. doura, Sherkhan Bakdaulet, Haneen Al-khuzaei, Souad Zhen Xu, and Maryia Zhukava. Castillo, Gana Elnajjar, Retaj pute, Sejal Sanil Tangoor, Afo-
Addressing students at the David Andrei Bratu, Sun Choi, Al Mana, Hassan Al Qassabi, Juniors named to the Samir Esmail Sharaf, Jingxi- mia Seyoum, Abeeha Shoaib,
event, Dean Michael Trick said Aya Elgosrani, Mohamed Elos- Abdulla Al-Maslamani, Leen Dean’s List: Mayowa Abayomi, ang Gao, Fatou Gueye, Aditya Muaz Topal, Kekeli Tsoekewo,
the Dean’s List is one of the ta, Amen Ghabara, Nour Ham- Almeadadi, Aisha Almuhan- Abdallah Abdaljalil, Mariam Gupta, Zeina Halawa, Hamzah Yunze Xiao, Mohamed Zahir,
most prestigious forms of rec- dan, Rumaysa Hayat, Jana nadi, Salma Alqubbaj, Omar Abdelatef, Jana Abdelmaguid, Hamad, Hiba Hamad, Moham- and Sara Zewil.
ognition for students who con- Hussien, Iroda Ibrohimova, Alrashidi, Abdulrahman Al- Rainier Agcaoili, Muhammed ed Hassaneen, Malak Ibrahim, CMU-Q offers undergradu-
sistently achieve outstanding Salma Kashlan, Muhammad Taweel, Fatima Al-Thani, Mo- Rayyan Ahmed, Eliza Akaliza, Adan Jawad, Ulpan Kaiyr- ate degree programmes in ar-
academic performance. Yasa U. Khan, Anish Lohani, hammed Al-Thani, Ariunbolor Khalid Al Abdulla, Aisha Al At- bayeva, Sarra Khelifi, Maryam tificial intelligence, biological
“It is a testament to their Reem Mahmoud, Madina Mir- Amgalanbaatar, Maya Bargh- tiyah, Maeda H.S. Al-Haidar, Khodadadi, Rediet Lemma, sciences, business administra-
perseverance and determina- zatayeva, Ahmad Pathan, Ze outi, Alina Barmagambetova, Salma Al Hardan, Abdulla Jade Mathias, Zhansaya Mat- tion, computer science, and
tion to excel.” He added, “This Ru, Ragad Sadaqa, Tala Sad- Yomna Eldressi, Rawan El Al Hemaidi, Latifa Al Hitmi, kenova, David Frederick Na- information systems. Applica-
ceremony is a valued tradition aqa, Furqan Saeed, Azhardika Ghali, Firdavs Fayzillaev, Sal- Al Anoud Al Khulaifi, Haya varro, Quynh Nguyen, Noor tions for the fall 2026 semester
at our university, celebrating Syahputra, Asilbek Toshpula- man Hajizada, Ebil Jacob, Mi- Al Kubaisi, Salwa Al-Kuwari, Niknam, Reem Mohamed Saad are now open.
16 Tuesday, October 21, 2025 The Last Word

AL MISNAD WITNESSES DISPATCH OF 60 QATARI AID TRUCKS TO GAZA

QNA
CAIRO

MINISTER of State for International Cooperation HE

Dr. Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad on Monday
witnessed the departure of 60 trucks loaded with Qatari
aid from 10th of Ramadan City to the Egyptian city of Al
Arish, in preparation for their entry into the Gaza Strip
via the Rafah Crossing.
This came during Al Misnad’s inspection of the Qa-
tari humanitarian aid warehouse in 10th of Ramadan
City, during her current visit to Egypt.
The Qatari aid to Gaza includes 25,500 comprehen-
sive food baskets, 1,800 hygiene baskets, 1,000 shelter
kits, 400 tonnes of flour, and 7,400 cartons of baby milk.
Al Misnad also toured the Qatari humanitarian aid
warehouse, which contains relief and food supplies.

How innovative education at QF Doha Film Institute announces

connects students to their cultural new Executive Board of Trustees
heritage through Arabic language TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK
DOHA

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK a science,” he says, “as it con- DOHA Film Institute (DFI) has
DOHA tributes to building a child’s announced its new Executive
character, developing their im- Board of Trustees comprised
IN Qatar Foundation’s schools, agination, and opening up new of distinguished leaders from
an innovative approach is being horizons for creativity and inno- key Qatari ministries and en-
taken to teaching and engaging vation through performance.” tities. Each member draws on
young learners with the Arabic Ayari’s project on Qatari their wealth of experience and HE Lolwah bint
language – emphasizing how chants became an educational expertise working with diverse Eng. Jassim Mo- Rashid bin Moham- HE Sheikha Al-Mayassa,
it is a pathway for creativity as programme under the Rasekh organisations that have helped hamed Al-Khori med Al Khater Chairperson of DFI
well as communication. platform. Based on the ‘karaoke’ shape the nation and strength-
At Qatar Foundation (QF), method, it allows students to en Qatar’s global position as a
Arabic is more than just a sub- practice correct pronunciation leading cultural hub.
ject taught exclusively in class- and performance techniques, Under the leadership
rooms. By combining digital relying on rhythm and melody of Chairperson of DFI, HE
technologies with active learn- supported by visuals. Sheikha Al-Mayassa, the new
ing using interactive platforms, Yassine Ayari “We must rebuild our con- members are: Chairman of
educational applications, and fidence in ourselves and our the Board of Directors of the
multimedia, QF’s educational points to the Rasekh platform, cultural heritage by drawing Qatar Fund for Development
ecosystem makes the process an initiative under QF’s Pre- inspiration from its values and (QFFD), HE Sheikh Thani bin
of learning Arabic smoother for University Education provid- rereading it in light of the needs Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani; HE Hassan Abdulla Al HE Saad Bin Ali Al
today’s students, while reinforc- ing high-quality educational of the present,” said Al-Ayari. Minister of Education and Thawadi Abdulla Al Najjar Kharji
ing its connection to cultural resources that connect interna- “History is not merely a past we Higher Education, HE Lolwah
heritage. tional curricula to a local con- recount; it is a civilizational as- bint Rashid bin Mohammed and redefined the global story- ad bin Khalifa Al Thani is Chair-
As Yassine Ayari, a music text, supporting schools in im- set with which we can create a Al Khater; Chairman of Qatar telling landscape with richness, man of the Board of Directors
teacher at QF’s Qatar Academy plementing global education world in which authenticity and Tourism, HE Saad bin Ali Al diversity, and truth. While we of the Qatar Fund for Develop-
Al Wakra - who received the programmes that students can modernity complement each Kharji; Managing Director of continue to grow, we remain ment (QFFD), where he leads
Distinguished Teacher Award relate to their own society. other, and in which the past the Supreme Committee for committed to the values that Qatar’s national efforts in the
at the QF’s Pre-University Edu- It is a platform that Ayari resonates with the aspirations Delivery and Legacy, HE Has- are part of our organisational fields of international develop-
cation Forum 2024 - explains: has utilised. A graduate of the of the future. san Abdulla Al Thawadi; Mem- DNA: creative excellence, cul- ment and humanitarian aid.
“The efforts and initiatives un- Sorbonne University in France “Our Arab-Islamic civili- ber of the Board of Trustees tural authenticity, and the HE Lolwah bint Rashid bin
dertaken by Qatar Foundation and the Higher Institute of Mu- zation, built on appreciation of Qatar Museums Abdulla Al belief in the power of film to Mohammed Al Khater is the
to promote the Arabic language sic in Tunisia, since joining QF of cultural heritage, moral- Najjar; and Chief Executive Of- unite, to heal, and to remind Minister of Education and High-
combine authenticity and mo- in 2011 he has looked to inte- ity, humanity, and the arts, ficer of Media City Qatar, Eng. us of our shared humanity. Our er Education. Her distinguished
dernity, presenting the Arabic grate local music into educa- represents a rich reference Jassim Mohamed Al-Khori. new Board of Trustees will steer career in public service includes
language and its teaching in a tion, and, through curriculum capable of inspiring new gen- Sheikha Al-Mayassa said: the organisation to continue to appointments as Minister of
way that keeps pace with the development and research, link erations – consolidating their “Over the past 15 years, DFI look boldly to the future while State for International Coopera-
aspirations of a new generation artistic performance to the pres- cultural identity, and opening has been a driving force behind honouring the strength of our tion and official spokesperson
while preserving its cultural, ervation of cultural heritage. the way for them to be crea- a golden age of Arab cinema, past and celebrating our rich for the Ministry of Foreign Af-
heritage, and human depth.” “I approach music as both tive and innovative in a rap- championing important films traditions and values”. fairs, as well as Assistant Minis-
To give an example, he a language of expression and idly changing world.” that have elevated Arab voices HE Sheikh Thani bin Ham- ter of Foreign Affairs.

How Ibtihaj Muhammad is helping QF empower girls through sport

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK hopefully encourages them to ties that resonate beyond to see athletes like her – wear-
DOHA see themselves be successful – sport. “Through fencing, I dis- ing the hijab or having brown
not only on the fencing strip or covered a strength and strat- skin – in fencing. Her message
FOR Olympic medallist Ibtihaj on the track, but outside of the egy within myself I never knew to young girls is self-belief and
Muhammad, sport has always sports world as well,” Muham- existed – that’s what makes claiming their rightful place de-
been about more than just mad says. the sport so special.” spite obstacles.
competition – it’s a vehicle for “Women only spaces cre- She acknowledges that “A message that I try to
empowerment, growth, and ate a sense of freedom. They there are many barriers fac- impart when I’m speaking to
breaking down barriers. Now, create a sense of comfort. They ing women in sport, including young girls is letting them know
as an ambassador for Qatar give us space to be ourselves, to in the Middle East, spanning that my journey was not always
Foundation’s Creating Path- really be incubators of growth. cultural, societal, and personal easy, but I’ve always believed
ways programme, she is dedi- And I’m so excited that Qatar is challenges. “Programmes like in myself,” she explains. “I’ve
cated to using sport to inspire leading the way in that sense. Creating Pathways are really always believed in my ability
young girls to realize their full And I look forward to see how important to challenging ste- to do great things in the sport,
potential. this reshapes and redefines reotypes and really pushing and whether or not teammates
When she joined Creating women and girls going forward back against those barriers and or coaches or officials wanted
Pathways – a key part of Qa- in the next generation.” helping encourage women to me there, I demanded my seat
tar Foundation’s (QF) effort to With deep roots in the Arab in a sport where I truly felt I be- the sky’s the limit. take care of their health first,” at the table, and I want to instil
create safe, supportive spaces world, fencing connects young longed,” she says. “Having the opportunity to she says. that same confidence in others.”
for female athletes – Muham- women to cultural and religious “I didn’t know back then work with Qatar Foundation as “We only get one body, one Looking ahead, Muham-
mad, an Olympic medallist heritage. For Muhammad, it’s that I would become a profes- an ambassador for this sports chance to truly care for our- mad hopes Creating Pathways
and world champion in fenc- more than sport – it’s a vital sional athlete – and have this programme, I’m hopeful that selves and lay the foundation will leave a legacy of courage,
ing, saw it as an opportunity link to tradition and identity. long legacy – but that’s what I we are redefining what success early. If we can help the next investment in women and girls,
to open doors and change per- Muhammad’s own jour- love about sport. You show up in sport looks like for the next generation see their bodies and and a vision for thriving com-
ceptions. ney began at age 12 when she as you are, and when you de- generation.” their health in a positive light, munities. To any girl doubting
“The programme creates discovered fencing. “Fencing cide that you want to commit Muhammad says that that’s something they’ll carry her place in sport, her message
space in ways we haven’t seen uniquely aligned with my re- to something, and you want to fencing revealed her inner with them for life.” is clear: “You belong. You don’t
before, in sports that the young ligious beliefs as a Muslim. It invest in yourself, and you want strength, strategic thinking, Reflecting on mentorship, need permission to take up
girls haven’t tried before, and was an opportunity to take part to invest in your development, and mental toughness – quali- Muhammad recalls struggling space. Sport is for all of us.”