Qatar to face South Korea in AFC U-19 semis today PAGE 18

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2018

FIFA boss Infantino says 48 teams could WORLD GYMNASTICS PAGE 18 happen for 2022 World Cup ASPIRE DOME ’s Dalaloyan redeems himself with All-Around gold ’s Ruoteng rues tie-break finish; count-back result hands him silver VINAY NAYUDU DOHA

“I need to do my best and fight to the end,” is what men’s de- fending All-Around champion of China had said prior to the final of the 48th FIG World Championships Doha 2018. On Wednesday at the Aspire Dome, he exactly did both – produced his very best and fought till the very end. Russian gold and bronze winners (right) and celebrate soon after the Yet, as luck may have it, he men’s All-Around event final at the Aspire Dome on Wednesday. ended on a rare tie-break with Russia’s Artur Dalaloyan only to miss out on a world gold medal following a count-back. Picture this: The Chinese needed a target score of 14.233 on the final rotation of the men’s All-Around final on the high bar. And he was the last to go in following Dalaloyan’s routine. Ruoteng came up with top show and smooth dismount and soon the scores flashed – 14.233!

Russia’s Artur Dalaloyan competes on the in the men’s All-Around final of the 2018 FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships Doha 2018 at the Aspire Dome on Wednesday. (AFP) China’s Xiao Ruoteng with Russia’s Artur Dalaloyan and Nikita Nagornyy at the medals ceremony. It resulted in a tie with the graciously accepted the silver. points, ahead of China’s Sun and realise that yes, I won this still happy with the result,” he tried to do my best in my rou- RESULTS two gymnasts now having a Dalaloyan was left in tears Wei (85.898). USA’s Samuel championship,” he said. said. tine.” total of 87.598 points each. To earlier in the week after fall- Mikulak was fifth with 85.273. On the scoreboard flashing On being the last gymnast There was, however, great MEN’S ALL-AROUND FINAL (TOP TEN) break the deadlock, the rules ing off the in the The Russian gold medal- his name as being on top, he in the last rotation (on hori- camaraderie between the 1. Artur Dalaloyan (RUS) 87.598PTS 2. Xiao Ruoteng (CHN) 87.598 were applied and on a count- team competition. ist was all smiles as he spoke said, “When I saw the results I zontal bar) and how did that gymnasts as they moved from 3. Nikita Nagornyy (RUS) 86.331 back of each competitor’s top The world All-Around gold through an interpreter. “I had immediately saw that #2 came put pressure on him, Ruoteng one rotation to the other and 4. Sun Wei (CHN) 85.898 five scores out of the six ap- for Russia came after almost only one goal, and that was to next to (Xiao’s) name and, of said, “There was a little pres- kept hugging their competi- 5. Samuel Mikulak (USA) 85.273 paratus. Dalaloyan’s lowest two decades, the last being perform my job from begin- course, felt happy and amaz- sure, but not so much, because tiors and shaking hands. 6. Kazuma Kaya (JPN) 84.765 7. Kenzo Shirai (JPN) 84.531 score which was on the pom- won by Nikolai Kryukov in ning to end without mistakes. ing.” I know how to adjust myself Nagornyy, who was in a 8. James Hall (GBR) 84.298 mel horse (13.400) was thus 1999. Later, Alexei Neimov “I was surprised and can’t Ruoteng was a picture of and give my best. I am satis- similar situation of the last 9. Artur Davtyan (ARM) 83.140 removed and he won the gold! captured gold for Russia at the say anything more. I’m just mixed emotions as he tried to fied with my performance.” routine during the men’s team 10. Marios Georgiou (CYP) 82.032 It capped a great comeback 2000 Olympics. so happy. I feel good, excel- hide the disbelief. The target score too wasn’t finals, said he was delighted for the 22-year-old Dalaloyan On this day though, Russia lent. I simply tried my best to “I feel pity about that, but of any help as Ruoteng said he with Dalaloyan and he finish- the gold.” from , but seemed to had double joy with Nikita Na- show my best. I can’t believe I respect the judges and my didn’t even check it. “I didn’t ing on the podium. On Thursday, the women have left Ruoteng in the lurch. gornyy collecting the bronze it yet. I need to probably go to rival. I basically want to be pay much attention to that. “It feels great and I’m very will be in action in the All- Though the Chinese, also 22, having finished on 86.331 my hotel, take a deep breath number one but anyway I am I just tried to be myself and happy for Dalaloyan as he won Around final from 4pm. FIG president holds roundtable with federations at Aspire

FIG-GYMNASTICS.COM months,” said Watanabe, who Gymnastics family.” created with the involvement DOHA was elected at the 81st Con- of the Athletes’ Commission. gress in Tokyo (JPN) in Oc- Safety and ethics “[Cases of abuse made public] INTERNATIONAL GYMNAS- tober 2016. “Our mission is to Watanabe stated that the most are just the tip of the iceberg,” TICS FEDERATION (FIG) propose the 2021-2024 cycle. important place for the FIG is Watanabe said. President Morinari Watanabe The first half of the year will be not its headquarters in Laus- “It started with women's met with representatives of the period we solve the prob- anne (SUI) but every place Gymnastics in the USA, but it national gymnastics federa- lems from the previous cycle. in the world where gymnasts spread to other countries and tions on Tuesday morning to In the latter half of the year, train each day, and that the is also seen in other sports. discuss major issues in the we analyse the past problems. safety of children is of the ut- From now on, sports commit- sport at the Aspire Dome, At the 2019 Council, we will most importance. He reiter- tees must review their struc- where the World Artistic Gym- formally propose the outline ated the ongoing efforts of the tures fundamentally to safe- nastics Championships Doha of the new cycle.” FIG to combat physical, men- guard the athletes.” 2018 are underway. Watanabe encouraged the tal and sexual abuse and har- Watanabe, who took office heads of the federations to assment in the sport, as seen Junior World C’ships in January 2017, represented discuss the major issues from in a three-pillar approach. A first junior world champi- the FIG family along with FIG top to bottom of their organi- The first of the three pillars is onships for Artistic Gymnas- Secretary-General André Gue- sations, in order to accurately the new FIG Ethics Founda- tics will be held in 2019 in isbuhler and Vice Presidents represent their respective The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) meeting at the Aspire Auditorium on Tuesday. tion, which is an independent Gyor (HUN). The champion- Vasily Titov and Nellie Kim. viewpoints at the Council. organisation that will inves- ships will be evaluated and if THE following subjects were due to huge expenses.” “A world championships qual- ships qualifiers to major events tigate misconduct allegations deemed successful, the junior dealt with: World C’ships’ format The growth of the sport in Af- ifier would increase the level of (such as the world champion- and if necessary, report their world championships will be “Changes to the world cham- rica and Oceania will mean competition,” he said. ships and ), it findings to the FIG for suspen- added to the FIG calendar, to Looking ahead to 2024 pionships format are needed even more nations in attend- “It’s conceivable that gym- would increase the marketing sion or expulsion. take place every other year. The 82nd FIG Congress will to reduce the size and length ing the world champion- nasts who start Gymnastics value as a sports event. The second pillar is expanded The FIG President also re- be held 2-3 December 2018 in of the competition, which is ships in future years, and the today can participate in the “I understand there may be safeguarding through educa- ceived feedback from the fed- Baku (AZE), where heads of taking place over 10 days in Competition Commission in world championships tomor- objections from the develop- tion courses directly for gym- erations about discussion to the 146 FIG affiliated federa- Doha,” Watanabe said. consultation with the Techni- row,” he said. “I cannot find ing countries, but we must nasts and coaches, which the lower the age limit by one year, tions will gather to outline the “It is a heavy burden on gym- cal Committees is exploring any other sport where begin- go the right way,” he said. FIG began in 2017 through the Olympic allotment, marketing quadrennium that follows the nasts physically and mentally, the idea of using continental ners compete against the best “The world championships FIG Academy. and promotion of the world 2020 Olympic Games in To- and in some cases it leads to championships as a qualifier of the world.” must be the competition for The third pillar is the establish- championships, and restoring kyo (JPN). injuries,” he said. “We have to compete at the world cham- Watanabe stated that by mak- the most experienced ath- ment of preventive measures the team size to five gymnasts “Our term is four years or 48 difficulties to find organisers pionships. ing continental champion- letes and the showcase for the through an athletes’ network at the Olympic Games. Sports Thursday, November 1, 2018 17 The Simone Show: Biles set for All-Around final VINAY NAYUDU which could take her haul of DOHA world championships medals ‘‘GREAT’ BILES’ POLISHED EXECUTION to a record-equalling 20. NOT OFTEN EMPHASISED’ THE spotlight will be back on Back after the break she the 21-year-old Simone Biles took post her four golds at the AN expert is of the view that even if Simone Biles was to com- when she returns to the Aspire Rio Olympics in 2016, Biles pete with the men, she’d succeed just as good. Dome on Thursday evening – has been just as phenomenal. “Biles’ form is close to flawless. Her execution is so beautiful this time to compete for the For some who just doesn’t that even if she’d competed it in the men’s competition—with women’s All-Around title at seem to take a step wrong or the Biles’ difficulty lowered to the 5.4 it garners as a men’s the 48th Artistic Gymnastics errs on a dismount or land- —she would’ve posted the second-highest vault score. World Championships Doha ing, Biles did show her human “While nobody ever forgets to praise her sheer power and 2018. self during the women’s team superlative “air awareness” (what allows a gymnast to know Having being diagnosed finals on Tuesday when she where she is in the midst of a big twisting trick), mainstream with a kidney stone just a day flipped on the balance beam accounts of her greatness often fail to emphasise her polished before the championships and had to grab the apparatus execution. On this vault, her body is perfectly straight in the began, the superstar gym- to avoid falling off. air; her legs together, toes pointed. One can only surmise that nast shrugged it off saying it “I get a little jittery every as an American-style “power gymnast,” Biles does not get due can be dealt with later. She time I go into that skill (piked praise for her form because her body does not have what is has chosen to bear the pain front somersault) because it’s euphemistically called the “international look,” i.e. that of (she cannot take many of the near the end and I know what a Russian ballet dancer. prescribed medicines dur- I’m capable of. I don’t know “Given that the difficulty of Biles’ routines would allow her to ing the competition given the why I get so shy on that skill. win every competition she enters with a fall on all four appa- anti-doping rules) and yet has It’s a forward-landing skill but ratuses—which she would never do because her execution is been performing incredibly. in practice it’s usually do good, superior — she could potentially be seen as exposing the flaws Biles has already led the US so I think it shakes me up and I American gymnast Simone Biles strikes a pose during the exercise routine in the women’s team in the sport’s “new” scoring system that replaced the “perfect women’s team to the world title lose a little focus, but it’s some- finals of the 48th Artistic Gymnastics World Championships Doha 2018 at the Aspire Dome on Tuesday. 10” in 2006. Namely: Because the system prizes difficulty, an and many are now left wonder- thing we need to work on. athlete can theoretically win the Olympics with an ugly routine ing is she would sweep all the “Sometimes you tend to On doing the new vault ficulties on that vault and ently special. It’s a joy to expe- full of falls if only that routine is hard enough,” says American titles (team, four in all-around, lose your focus,” she explained. named which now has been I’m still learning it. I never rience that as a coach. writer Rebecca Schuman in her piece ‘Simone Biles’ New Vault and individual apparatus). Expect Biles to be much named after her, where she’s thought that here I’d be doing “I try and give her as much Will Destroy the Competition, It will also help save gymnastics. “I think, there’s a lot of different and focused for sure added a 720 degrees half twist, that extra half twist, but it is mental advice I can. You need nerves behind it, so it de- in the All-Around competi- Biles says it’s super-exciting. really super exciting,” she said to adjust your coaching to the pends. We will go through the tion. She’s aware of the world “It’s super exciting, espe- speaking of her new vault. extreme because it’s a whole she is performing at her best,” Morgan Hurd, Japan's Mai routines and see where we end focus on her and given the cially since I never thought I Her coach Laurent Landi package and not just one side. said Landi. Murakami, China's Huan Luo, up,” is how the always smiling hallmark of a champion she could go any higher than the has been dealing his gym- “Champions like Biles The others to watch for at and Russia's Angelina Melnik- Biles responded when asked carries, she just wouldn’t let change because even in Rio nast’s prodigious talent with come may be once in 100 the women's All-Around fi- ova and Irina Alekseeva among about a clean sweep of titles you know how serious she is. there were a little bit of dif- a lot of care too. “She’s differ- years. So you just ensure that nal include Biles'compatriot others from the total 24.

Diese scores a thrilling win as QREC’s new season kicks-off The Al Ruwais Cup, which also marked the kick-off of Qatar Rac- ing & Equestrian Club’s (QREC) new season, saw a thrilling finish in the opening race on Wednesday as the Alban de Mieulle-trained Diese came up with a triumph. The Olivier Materne-owned Diese had been finishing quite close the last season, but began the new season with a flourish being rid- den by jockey Ronan Thomas. De Mieulle scored a close win at the post with Hadi Nasser al-Ramzani- trained Ehwaz, ridden by Tomas Lukasek fought hard in the final stages of the 1900 race on dirt. Qatar Equestrian Federation (QEF) and Asian Equestrain Federation Meanwhile, Jassim Mohamed Secretary Badr al Darwish at the Global Sports Summit held in Ghazali’s AJS Wathanan under New Delhi, India, recently. jockey Marco Casamento pipped Faleh Bughanaim, ridden by Basheer, by a short head to finish Qatar & AEF secretary Badr third. Ibrahim al-Malki and trainer Ghazali notched two victories al Darwish attends Global apiece. Al Malki’s Damsah won the Local Thoroughbred Handicap event for horses under Jimmy Sports Summit in India Quinn, while Sheail bin Khalifa al- Kuwari’s Cloudberry, ridden by JP TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK the development of equestrian Guillambert, edged Perfect Storm DOHA to support young participants by a short head in the 1800m and women’s sports. Thoroughbred Handicap event. Action from the feature race of the opening day of Qatar Equestrian & Racing Club’s (QREC) new season at Al Rayyan on Wednesday. THE secretary of the Qatari The dialogue within the and Asian Equestrian Federa- meeting also touched on AEF’s tion (AEF) Badr al Darwish re- plan to promote equestrian cently participated in the 8th sport in its various disciplines Global Sports Summit ‘Turf on the goals and methods to 2018’ – an International Con- achieve them. vention on Business of Sports Darwish also stressed – held in New Delhi, India. during his interaction on the Darwish was accompanied level of government support by Ahmad al Badawi, Techni- represented by the Olympic cal Specialist, Qatar Equestri- Committee and the extent of an Federation. its keenness to enable Qatari The participation was youth with all the require- done to benefit from India’s ments for success within its experience in the field of sport framework towards achieving promotion, which has wit- Olympic goals. nessed a clear development at The presence of the Qatari the regional and international delegation was much appreci- levels, and also to outlay the ated by the participating min- strategic plan of Qatar Eques- isters and the heads of local trian Federation adopted for and international federations. Diese trainer Alban de Mieulle (left) and jockey Ronan Thomas receive their trophies. (Right) Diese pips Ehwaz, ridden by Tomas Lukasek, at the post.

LONGINES GLOBAL CHAMPIONS TOUR: DOHA FINALE NOVEMBER 8 TO 10 AT AL SHAQAB Sheikh Ali on dreaming big & sporting pressure

to win a LGCT Grand Prix, and we want to do our very best ing Academy aimed at moti- him. However he is riding year, they form the Doha Fur- to bring an Olympic medal for our country and show our vating young riders. “We have the wave of innovation and san Qatar GCL team, pow- home for Qatar, particularly as people and country that our also started a new education evolution when it comes to ered by partner Lusail, with a team,” he said. team are working hard in Eu- system in Qatar, and we try show jumping, and welcomes the experienced team battling Competing internationally rope and heading in the right to inspire the next generation. the development in the sport. against 18 others this year in around the world Sheikh Ali direction.” This is how it should be. Al “The sport is changing. And the prestigious team champi- has been flying the Qatari flag Taking a step back from Shaqab are doing a really good Jan (Tops), LGCT Founder & onship. “We are working to- for show jumping, consistent- the competition itself, Sheikh job of educating young riders, President, is a visionary - he wards a programme for Tokyo ly jumping at the highest level Ali reflects on the significance and prepare them to move to sees this and helps to grow it for the Qatari show jumping against the top ranked riders of having LGCT hosted by his Europe for the start of a pro- in the best way. team so we have had to slow in the world. But as LGCT country. “Qatar has a big vi- fessional career.” “Every year something on down a little and it’s one of and GCL look to Al Shaqab - a sion for sport, not just eques- When asked how Sheikh the LGCT and GCL is changing. the reasons we decided to put member of the Qatar Founda- trian. So in every sport Qatar Ali deals personally with being Now we have the GC Playoffs. (British rider) Michael Whi- tion - after a global circuit in- is choosing the best. For ex- a leading sporting figure, he Before that we had no teams, taker in our Doha Fursan Qa- Qatar rider Sheikh Ali cluding cities such as Miami ample in equestrian they are says: “I really love to inspire. I and now we have the GCL for tar GCL team as he has many bin Khalid al Thani Beach, Shanghai, Paris, Rome bringing the best Tour that has am from the Royal Family so three years. You don’t know of his own fantastic horses. with his Rio Olympics and London, competing at ever happened - the Longines there is attention on my name, what’s coming up, but it’s get- “As you know the sport horse First Devision home is different, as Sheikh Global Champions Tour is the so I have to prove that we are ting more and more interest- has totally changed. The level, - where the pair had Ali explains: “There is more best there is in show jumping. working hard and anyone can ing. We are very excited, and how technical it is, the way of finished 6th in 2016. pressure for us at the event in If you see also in other sport we achieve great things. I love the see more and more people from the sport is very different and Doha. We are motivated, you are looking to the 2022 World sport that I do - but it all started Qatar and around the world the vision is totally different to have the crowd, your family, Cup in football, the handball with a love of horses. I loved following us. I remember I how it was before, so we need to ITH the Longines Glob- bin Khalid al Thani revealed: everyone watching and you final has already been hosted horses before I loved the sport.” used to go for dinner with peo- improve our team. So we need Wal Champions Tour – “What motivates me every need to do well. We want to here, and the athletics cham- With his Rio Olympic ple outside the sport who asked to stay jumping at the highest LGCT Doha – hitting the ma- day is to be successful. I work show our country what we pionships run in our country.” horse First Devision - where what I was doing – they had no level, within the Longines Glob- jestic Al Shaqab equestrian hard, I train, I go to the gym we are doing and how we are However a big part of this the pair took 6th individually, idea what show jumping really al Champions Tour and GCL arena from November 8-10, before riding, I have a pro- improving. Every year there is drive towards hosting pre- the highest result for any Qa- was. But now, even those who shows, to help our team im- all eyes will be on the very best gramme and a plan of where a Qatari rider in the top ten, mium sporting events is to tari show jumper in history are not in the sport know what prove. Qatar is a small country – horses and riders in the sport I want to be. But success to and it was perfect last year inspire and engage a future - California, Vienna Olym- it is and really get it.” we cannot go for a lot of Nations as they battle for supremacy me is defined as making my that Bassem (Hassan Moham- generation. Sheikh Ali points pic and new rising star, the 9 And the future looks bright Cups, so the GCL team compe- in the world’s premier show country proud. To bring home med) won. The facilities are to the tremendous work Al year old Sirocco who will take for show jumping in Qatar, tition is helping our national jumping series. medals for Qatar and to rep- top (at Al Shaqab) - I can’t Shaqab is doing within the part at the Doha event all part with the 2020 Olympics clearly show jumping team. We feel the In an exclusive interview resent my country against the talk too much about it as I am country’s realm of show jump- of his string, Sheikh Ali has in the mind of Sheikh Ali and pressure at every event exactly ahead of the event Sheikh Ali best of the best. My dream is from Qatar! But the feeling is ing, in particular with the Rid- serious horsepower behind his teammates. For the third the same as the Olympics.” 18 Thursday, November 1, 2018 Sports AFC U-19 CHAMPIONSHIP SEMI-FINALS FIFA boss says Qatar face South Korea 48 teams could happen for Qatar with eyes on AFC U-19 title World Cup High scoring games have been a feature of Qatar’s campaign thus far, with 6-5 and 7-3 wins Qatar looking into feasibility of TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK sharing hosting responsibilities DOHA AFP qualifying gets under way. QATAR’S Head coach Bruni KUALA LUMPUR “We are still looking at the Pinheiro has called on Qatar feasibility studies and we will to remain focused on winning FIFA president Gianni Infan- be in a better position to pro- the title ahead of Thursday’s tino said expanding the 2022 vide a feedback in the future," eagerly anticipated AFC U-19 World Cup to 48 teams was he said. Championship Indonesia “feasible” on Wednesday, as “But it will be decided be- 2018 semi-final against the hosts Qatar pledged to come to fore the qualifications... some- South Korea. a decision in the early part of time in the first quarter of next Pinheiro’s talented charges next year. year.” are set to face the Koreans af- Infantino said "Why not?" He added that preparations ter topping Group A and then bring forward the expansion remained on track despite the seeing off Thailand in the from 32 teams to 48, which is blockade, and that the budget quarter-finals – a win which currently due at the 2026 tour- of $200 billion for the entire guaranteed them a place at nament in the United States, next year’s FIFA U-20 World Canada and Mexico. Cup. “We have decided... to in- With Qatar’s initial target crease the number of teams already achieved, Pinheiro is participating in the World hoping for even greater things Cup final tournaments from from his side as they continue 32 to 48," Infantino told the Expansion their hunt for what would be a Asian Football Confedera- 2nd AFC U-19 Championship tion's annual congress in Kuala “It will happen in 2026. Will it title. “It is sometimes normal Lumpur. happen in 2022? You know for a team to relax a little after “It will happen in 2026. me. It is possible. It is qualifying for something such Will it happen in 2022? You possible. Why not?” You will as a World Cup,“ he said ahead know me. It is possible. It is have (a bigger) chance. It is of the encounter at Bogor’s Pa- possible. Why not?” he added. possible. It is feasible. We are kansari Stadium. Infantino said an expanded discussing with our Qatari “We will not be relaxing tournament would see Asia's friends. We are discussing though. Of course, it was im- allocation rise from 4.5 places with many other friends in the portant for us to reach the to 8.5, raising cheers from region. We hope we have it World Cup so that we could pit the delegates assembled at a ourselves against the planet’s luxury hotel in the Malaysian happen. We always have to best players and coaches, but capital. try,” Infantino said. this team has the potential to Abdulrasheed Umaru (right) of Qatar U-19 team celebrates with goalscorer Hashim Ali in thier quarter-final game against Thailand. “You will have (a bigger) go even further (in this com- chance. It is possible. It is fea- infrastructure, including metro petition). “It is now a question away from repeating their portant thing is to win.” and because of it we have not sible. We are discussing with and expressway, has not been of preparing the team both 2014 title success, Pinheiro “Korea Republic are a diffi- Meanwhile, South Korea always played as well as we our Qatari friends. We are affected. physically and mentally. We is adamant however that his cult team, and it will be a Head coach Chung Jung-yong know we can. Nevertheless, we discussing with many other "We are very happy and always want to win every game side’s approach will not change very tough game for us, but has urged Korea Republic to have reached the semi-finals, friends in the region. We hope excited with the progress. It is we play, and I am not expect- in the semi-finals where they take a confident approach into so I hope my team will forget we have it happen. We always on track. By 2020-2021 all our ing anything different from will be without the suspended we will play our usual brand the game. about the pressure surround- have to try,” he said. (eight) stadiums will be ready," my team against the Korea Re- Ahmed Suhail. of football, which is to have “My players have been un- ing the game and do their very Accommodating another al-Thawadi said. public.” “South Korea are a diffi- the ball as much as possi- der a lot of pressure during best against Qatar. 16 teams would vastly com- “This is the first World Cup High scoring games have cult team, and it will be a very ble and to make the most this tournament, but I believe “The first goal for all the plicate Qatar's task in prepar- in the Middle East and is a per- been a feature of Qatar’s cam- tough game for us, but we will of our possession in the now is the time for them to teams here was obviously to ing for the World Cup, which fect opportunity to bring people paign thus far, with a 6-5 group play our usual brand of foot- approach the game with more qualify for the World Cup. was awarded to the tiny desert together and contribute to the stage defeat of Indonesia and ball, which is to have the ball final third,” Pinheiro said. confidence rather than be af- Now we have done that, the state in 2010. Qatar has also process of healing," he added. a 7-3 win over Thailand in the as much as possible and to fected by any pressure,” he game against Qatar is not only been involved in a stand-off Ahead of FIFA's presiden- quarter-finals amongst their make the most of our posses- change our approach. It really said ahead of the encounter. a crucial semi-final, but also with neighbours Saudi Ara- tial election next year, Infan- successes. sion in the final third,” he said. does not matter if you win 5-4 “I think that the situa- the first step in our prepara- bia, Bahrain, the United Arab tino said 180 out of the 211 With Qatar just two wins “We are not about to or if you win 1-0. The most im- tion has told on us at times, tion for the World Cup.” Emirates and Egypt, who have federations had given him their cut off diplomatic relations and support. "You know there is imposed a blockade on the re- an election coming. I have an- source-rich country. nounced I will be a (presiden- Hassan al Thawadi, head tial) candidate. I have received AFC celebrates 2022 of the 2022 organising body, over 180 letters of support," he Qatar Airways official told AFP that Qatar was study- said. "And when it comes to ing the 48 teams proposal and Asia, only a couple are miss- World Cup in Qatar would make a decision before ing." with soccer bigwigs partners of CONMEBOL We are continually striving Qatar Airways, the first- Qatar will play in to boost our global sporting ever airline partner for CON- next year’s Copa sponsorship portfolio, and this MEBOL’s club competitions, partnership is just one more will leverage high brand as- America in Brazil example of our dedication to sociation and large audience the sports sector. We are also visibility at all 260 matches in TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK excited to further expand our both year-long competitions DOHA presence in South America, across the South American and look forward to supporting continent and will feature be- QATAR Airways have signed a the forthcoming CONMEBOL ginning with the CONMEBOL football sponsorship deal with football competitions.” Libertadores semi-finals on 31 the South American Football CONMEBOL President, October. The airline will also be Confederation CONMEBOL Alejandro Domínguez, said: the presenting and sole partner (From left) Hassan al Thawadi, Gianni Infantino and Sheikh Hamad to become the confederation's “We are proud to embark on for the Recopa Sudamericana, bin Khalifa bin Ahmed al Thani at a ceremony in Kuala Lumpur, "official global airline partner" this journey with Qatar Air- the home and away fixture Malaysia, on Tuesday. for four-and-a-half-year. ways, one of the world’s most between the champions of As part of the agreement, prestigious airlines, to drive CONMEBOL Libertadores and TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK also thanked AFC members for Qatar Airways will be the spon- football development in South CONMEBOL Sudamericana. DOHA remaining committed to fully sor of CONMEBOL’s profes- America. CONMEBOL’s com- Qatar Airways has long supporting a successful edition sional football club competi- petitions have a rich heritage celebrated its strong ties with The World Cup trophy could be fought over by 48 teams in Qatar FIFA President Gianni Infantino of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in tions across South America and offer some of the world’s South America; earlier this year 2022. (TASS) was joined by AFC chief Sheikh Qatar. until the end of the 2022 World most exciting and competi- the airline announced it was the Salman bin Ibrahim al Khalifa “We look forward to wel- Cup in Qatar. tive professional football. And Official Jersey Sponsor of the and scores of other football of- coming the football family to the CONMEBOL is the conti- thanks to recent improve- world-renowned Argentinian Argentine winger ficials to celebrate the hosting 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The nental governing body of foot- ments, our tournaments are football club the Boca Juniors No touchline ban for of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in event is four years away, but we ball in South America and is also among the world’s fast- through the 2022/23 season. Mourinho after FA Di Maria estends Qatar. can’t wait for the event to begin,” one of FIFA's six continental est growing. Naturally, we’re Baker confirmed that Boca charge 'not proven' PSG deal until 2021 Qatar Football Association he said. confederations. delighted to partner with Qa- Juniors will play in Qatar early (QFA) President Sheikh Hamad Qatar Airways Group Chief tar Airways, the world’s fast- in 2019 -- talks are ongoing for LONDON: The threat of a touch- PARIS: Paris Saint-Germain bin Khalifa bin Ahmed al Thani, AFC must avoid return Executive, Akbar al Baker, est growing airline, to bring Argentinians to play in a poten- line ban hanging over Jose winger Angel Di Maria has signed Vice President Saud al Mohan- to ‘turmoil and instability’: said: “Qatar Airways is thrilled our continents closer together tial tournament. Mourinho was removed Wednes- a two-year contract extension nadi, Secretary General Mansoor Sheikh Salman to partner with CONMEBOL, through sport and build a Also next year, Qatar's na- day when a Football Association with the club keeping him at the al Ansari and Hassan al Thawadi, Asian Football Confedera- which is the oldest continen- brighter future for all of South tional side will play in the Copa charge brought against the French champions until June Secretary General of Supreme tion (AFC) President Sheikh Sal- tal confederation in the world. American football.” America in Brazil. Manchester United manager for 2021. Committee for Delivery & Legacy man bin Khalifa warned against using foul language was declared The 30-year old joined PSG (SC) joined the AFC family for a a return to “turmoil and insta- "not proven". Television footage from Manchester United in 2015 dinner party at the Grand Hyatt bility” on Wednesday in Kuala showed Mourinho saying some- for an estimated fee of 60 million Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. Lumpur as he launched his bid to thing, apparently in his native euros ($68.9m), at the time it FIFA Secretary-General Fa- retain his position at the helm of Portuguese, while at one point was the second largest transfer tima Samoura was also present the continent’s governing body. looking into a camera, as he fee paid by the Parc des Princes as were Presidents of football Sheikh Salman, who is seek- headed towards the tunnel after club for a player, behind Uruguay- bodies from across the Asian ing a third term in office, was the final whistle of the comeback an striker Edinson Cavani. continent. first elected AFC president in win over Newcastle. He also "I have loved the last three At the ceremony, Qatar re- 2013 to complete the term of made a gesture with his right years in Paris where I have iterated that it would bring the former president Mohammed hand while speaking, pointing everything I need to play my world together by hosting the bin Hammam. The Bahraini with his little finger. But a state- best football" Di Maria said in 2022 FIFA World Cup. QFA was reelected to his post in 2015 ment issued by the FA said: "A a statement. "Every day I feel President also lauded the efforts and is seeking another term in charge against Jose Mourinho for honoured and motivated to be a of AFC for taking the game to all office when the confederation’s allegedly using language which part of such an ambitious project corners of the Asian continent. elections are held on April 6 was abusive and/or insulting - unique in Europe. Along with my The special gathering has next year. and/or improper has been found teammates, we have a lot more been called to celebrate the in- “We all remember only too not proven following an Inde- great things to achieve and we auguration of the new AFC head- well the problems of the past, pendent Regulatory Commission will continue to help PSG grow quarters in the Malaysian capital. that period of turmoil and insta- hearing today. "It related to an as a big club internationally," he QFA Vice President al Mo- bility,” he told the AFC congress incident at the end of the Man- added. hannadi delivered a short speech on Wednesday. “No one wants to chester United versus Newcastle After starting with Rosario to highlight Qatar’s amazing return to that image of the AFC United game on 6 October 2018. Central in south America he preparation to stage the 2022 and I’m determined we shall not. "Written reasons for the decision moved to Europe and joined FIFA World Cup. In his speech, We also need to protect the AFC of the Independent Regulatory Benfica in 2007, before signing he thanked FIFA and AFC chiefs and the member associations Commission will be published for Real Madrid three years later. for being supportive of the World from unwanted third party inter- Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Akbar al Baker with CONMEBOL President, Alejandro Domínguez at in due course. This decision is He moved to Manchester United Cup preparations in Qatar. He ference.” (REUTERS) the signing ceremony at Oryx Rotan in Doha on Wednesday. subject to appeal." (AFP) in 2014 and then PSG. (AFP) Sports Thursday, November 1, 2018 19 Nadal pulls Attiyah aims to equal Sulayem’s out of Paris; Djokovic MERC title record in Kuwait number one AFP Wednesday afternoon. He will PARIS Ace Qatari be hoping to finish on his re- turn to the MERC – a series he RAFAEL Nadal pulled out of rallyist needs a came within a whisker of win- the Paris Masters on Wednes- win to match ning outright back in 1993. day guaranteeing Novak Djoko- Lebanon’s Henry Kahy vic's return to world number record of 14 titles needs to stay out of trouble one spot. and cross the finish line to Announcing his withdraw- TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK confirm the MERC 3 title for al at a hastily arranged press ARIFJAN (KUWAIT) two-wheel drive cars with Jor- conference Nadal said: “My danian navigator Musa Djiy- abdominal muscles haven't NASSER Saleh al Attiyah will erian also eager to clinch the felt good for the past few days, be aiming to match one of the MERC 3 Co-Drivers’ Champi- especially on serve, doctors rec- longest-standing records in onship. “We are here to drive ommended that I didn't play.” world motor sport when he for a finish to confirm the ti- Djokovic arrived in Paris heads an international field tle,” said Kahy. knowing that he would regain of competitors from eight na- “Then we want to end the the top spot he relinquished tions into Kuwait’s exciting season with another good per- two years ago if he bettered the return to the FIA Middle East formance in Qatar.” Spaniard's performance at the Rally Championship (MERC) This year’s event is being indoor event he has won four at Kuwait Motor Town on organised by the Basil Salem times. Thursday afternoon. al Sabah Motor Racing Club The Wimbledon and US While Kuwait celebrates (BMRC) under the chairman- Open champion becomes the its own milestone of hosting ship of Sheikh Athbi Nayef first player to start the season a first international FIA-sanc- Jaber al Ahmad al Sabah and outside the top 20 and end up tioned event at its new FIA in conjunction with the Gen- top of the ATP rankings since grade one race circuit facility, eral Authority for Sport and Marat Safin in 2000. south of Kuwait City, Attiyah Nasser Saleh Al-Attiyah and Matthieu Baumel will be chasing more silverware in Kuwait this weekend. the Kuwait International Au- The 14-time Grand Slam is focusing on claiming out- tomobile Club (KIAC). Zain champion had begun his pur- right victory in the three-day ni Bernacchini and Chris Pat- O The Qatari already has N cars such as the Subaru Im- and Fahad al Mutairi. Kuwait is the main sponsor on suit of the top spot in encourag- event with his Autotek-run terson (25 wins apiece). the record for the greatest preza and derivatives of the Nasser Khalifa al Attiyah this occasion. ing fashion with a 7-5, 6-1 defeat Ford Fiesta R5. This result Attiyah said: “This is an Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. returns to active competition Action gets underway of Joao Sousa on Tuesday, his would net the Qatari a record- important rally for several number of successes in Local driver Meshari al after a long absence working with a timed special stage of 19th consecutive win. equalling 14th regional rally reasons. Obviously the record the history of the Kuwait Thefiri stands on the verge of in a senior role within both 2.3km at Kuwait Motor Town For Nadal it means delay- title and put him alongside is important, but the Kuwait Rally with six wins (2009, claiming another showroom the Qatar Motor and Motor- Race Circuit from 16.00hrs ing his long awaited comeback Dubai’s Mohammed Ben Su- Rally is always challenging 2011 and 2013-2016) to title with Qatari navigator cycle Federation and the FIA. on Thursday afternoon, but from injury which has kept him layem in the history books. and it would be nice to wrap Ben Sulayem’s four (1985, Nasser al Kuwari, but compe- He teams up with the experi- the desert action is split into sidelined since the US Open. The Qatari already has up the championship before 1988, 1989 and 2006). tition is sure to be fierce from enced Italian navigator Nicola two loops of six different loose “It’s been a difficult year for the record for the greatest the final round in Qatar in a host of Jordanian, Omani, Arena, who won the regional surface stages on Friday and me in terms of injuries, and so number of successes in the two-weeks’ time.” Qatari and Kuwaiti rivals. title with the late Misfer al Saturday. I’d prefer to avoid doing any- history of the Kuwait Rally Czech driver Vojtech Stajf his Qatari rival to the finish Khaled Juma leads the Marri in 2010. “We had a look at some thing drastic,” he told the media with six wins (2009, 2011 and is attempting to to win the re- and complete all the special way for the Hashemite King- Arena, who competed of the stages on Tuesday and minutes before his intended 2013-2016) to Ben Sulayem’s gional rally series and Ladislav stages. That would not be dom and still has a chance in Kuwait in 2016 with al the rest on Wednesday,” said match against compatriot Fern- four (1985, 1988, 1989 and Kucera has replaced Marketa sufficient for Stajf to prevent to win the title, while fellow Nuami, said: “The stages are Attiyah’s navigator Baumel. ando Verdasco. 2006). Skacelova as his navigator in al Attiyah from retaining the countrymen Ihab al Shorafa nice, quite fast in places and “There is a brand new stage “It wouldn’t have been Attiyah will also be chas- the Skoda Fabia R5. title, however, and Al-Atti- and Shadi Shaban will be a little confusing where there – KMT – and that will be the good for me nor anyone to re- ing his 68th MERC win, while Stajf trails Attiyah by 32 yah’s challenger will need to challenging hard. are different tracks from the second and fifth special and turn to the court knowing that victory for navigator Matthieu points in the title race after push hard over the opening Abdullah al Rawahi flies other drivers doing the recce. the first one on Friday. It is I wouldn't be able to play my Baumel would be his 17th rallies in Jordan, Lebanon stages to try and gain the up- the flag in the category for the Nasser and I are working well sandier than we may have ex- best.” in MERC history and would and Cyprus, but there are per hand on leg one. Sultanate of Oman and there together.” pected, but that is easier on During his enforced time move the Frenchman ahead two rounds to go and a pos- While the leading duo are further Group N entries Attiyah got to grips with a the car and we run less risk of out Nadal joined in the clean- of John Spiller into equal sible 39 points available to swap seconds for supremacy for Qatar’s Nasser Khalifa al rally car again at a recent test punctures or damage.” up operation after flash floods third in the regional Hall of the winner of each race with at the top of the leader board, Attiyah and Rashed al Nuami session in Lebanon and aired In a total route of killed 12 people on the Spanish Fame behind Ronan Morgan 30 potentially on offer to a fascinating tussle is sure to and Kuwaiti drivers Jassim al his rally car in the desert close 587.80km, 198.62km will be holiday island of Majorca where (41 wins) and a tying Giovan- the Czech if he can shadow develop in MERC 2 for Group Muqahwi, Mubarak al Thefiri to Kuwait Motor Town on timed against the clock. he lives. Elias stuns defending champion Ooredoo opens registration ElShorbagy to book semis spot for 2019 Doha Marathon TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK Farag, Momen set DOHA up all-Egyptian IN a bid to continue its pro- gramme dto engage citizens to semi-final clash keep a healthy lifestyle, Oore- doo has launched the seventh annual Ooredoo Marathon AYENI OLUSEGUN which will take place on Janu- DOHA ary 11, 2019 in Doha in a press conference on Wednesday. WORLD number 11 Diego Ooredoo also said it will Elias pulled off a major upset announce the exact route in as he stunned world number the coming weeks. one and defending champion Ooredoo began the Oore- Mohamed ElShorbagy in the doo Marathon event to in- quarter-finals of the Qatar spire Qatar’s communities to Ooredoo COO Yousuf Abdulla al Kubaisi speaking at a press Squash Classic. get fit and raise money for a conference to launch the Ooredoo 2019 Marathon in Doha on The result ended ElShor- good cause. 100 percent of the Wednesday. (JALAL PATHIYOOR) bagy's pursuit of a fourth Qa- registration fees for the mara- tar Classic crown and a sev- thon will be donated to charity we are inviting all of Qatar’s Prizes will be awarded to enth consecutive appearance and fees will range depending communities to take part, as the best runners in a range of in the final in what proved on the selected course and age well as runners from around categories, based on age and to be his first real test in the of the participant. the world.” gender. tournament. Yousuf Abdulla al Kubaisi, This 2019 Ooredoo Doha Anyone interested in run- The 21-year-old Peru star COO Ooredoo Qatar, said: Marathon will feature courses ning the 2019 Ooredoo Mara- announced himself on the big “I’m delighted to announce for runners of all abilities -in- thon can find more informa- stage winning in five sets; 11- that registration is now open cluding a 10km run, half-mar- tion and register at https:// 8, 11-13, 13-11, 10-12 and 11-7 for the 2019 Ooredoo Mara- athon, full marathon, 5km run www.premieronline.com/ in 76 minutes. thon! This event promises to and a special children’s 1km event/ooredoo_doha_mara- “I’m really happy to be be our most diverse ever, as fun run. thon_2019_3912 into the semis of a major event for the first time in my career and to do it by beating Diego Elias of Peru celebrates his quarter-finals win over world number one and defending champion Mo- the World No.1 is special,” hamed ElShorbagy of Egypt during the Qatar Squash Classic at the Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Elias said. Complex in Doha on Wednesday. “I was very close to beat- Pakistan down New Zealand by ing a few top players and I have had some long 5 game matches. Today, I had a good two runs in last-over T20 thriller news this morning, and I AFP thought it was going to be SCOREBOARD NEW ZEALAND a good day. I was right, my ABU DHABI C. Munro c Asif b Shadab ...... 58 day just got even better,” the PAKISTAN G. Phillips b Hasan ...... 12 former British Junior Open LEFT-ARM pace bowler Babar Azam c Seifert b Milne ...... 7 K. Williamson c and b Wasim ...... 11 Sahibzada Farhan c Munro b Patel ...... 1 C. de Grandhomme run out ...... 6 champion added. Shaheen Shah Afridi defended Asif Ali c Phillips b de Grandhomme ...... 24 R. Taylor not out ...... 42 The twice-world junior 17 runs in the last over as Paki- Mohammad Hafeez c Southee b Milne ...... 45 C. Anderson c Malik b Hasan ...... 9 champion will face German stan defeated New Zealand by Sarfraz Ahmed c Anderson b Sodhi ...... 34 T. Seifert b Hasan ...... 0 Simon Rösner for a place in two runs in a thrilling finish to Shoaib Malik run out ...... 8 T. Southee not out ...... 5 Faheem Ashraf not out ...... 10 Extras: (lb2, w1) ...... 3 the final after the fourth seed the first Twenty20 international Imad Wasim not out ...... 14 Total: (for six wkts; 20 overs) ...... 146 overcame seventh seed Paul in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday. Extras: (lb2, w3) ...... 5 Did not bat: A. Milne, I. Sodhi, Ajaz Patel Fall of wickets: Coll of New Zealand 8-11, 11- New Zealand needed six off Total: (For six wkts; 20 overs) ...... 148 1-50 (Phillips), 2-79 (Munro), 3-84 (Munro), 4-89 9, 11-4, 12-10. the last delivery to tie the match Did not bat: Shadab Khan, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah (Grandhomme), 5-123 (Anderson), 6-132 (Seifert) Afridi Fall of wickets: 1-8 (Azam), 2-10 (Farhan), 3-77 Bowling: Wasim 4-0-26-1, Ashraf 2-0-15-0, Hasan Rosner started slow before but experienced batsman Ross (Hafeez), 4-93 (Ali), 5-121 (Sarfraz), 6-123 (Malik) 4-0-35-3, Hafeez 3-0-13-0, Shadab 4-0-26-1, seeing off Coll, but the Ger- Taylor managed just a bound- Bowling: Patel 4-0-27-1, Southee 4-0-30-0, Milne 4-0- Shaheen 3-0-29-0 man said his confidence was ary as New Zealand – set 149 28-2 (1w), Grandhomme 3-0-24-1 (1w), Sodhi 4-0-24- Result: Pakistan won by two runs perhap low in the begining. Ali Farag plays a shot during his match against Karim Abdel Gawad on Wednesday. to win – finished at 146-6 at 1 (1w), Munro 1-0-13-0, “I didn’t mean to play that Sheikh Zayed Stadium. slow pace at the start, it was Results semis and it’s time to prepare last year's runner-up Tarek The victory gave world Sunday. Mohammad Hafeez nings, dominated by opener just me not being confident fora really tough battle to- Momen, also of Egypt. number one ranked Pakistan top-scored with 45 in Pakistan's Colin Munro's 42-ball 58 with enough, and then when I went Tarek Momen (EGY) bt. Joel Makin (WAL) 8-11, morrow,” Rosner said. Momen ended Welshman their seventh consecutive win 148-6 after they won the toss three sixes and six boundaries. for it, I just clipped the top of 11-6, 14-12, 11-6 (51m) Elsewhere, second seed Joel Makin's run in four sets since July and 15th in 17 Twen- and batted. Pakistan’s varied bowling, the tin, which didn’t help with Ali Farag (EGY) bt. [6] Karim Abdel Gawad (EGY) Ali Farag beat compatriot and despite losing the first 8-11. ty20 internationals this year. Taylor finished with a led by Hasan Ali with 3-35, my confidence. 11-9, 11-7, 11-8 (45m) 2016 champion Karim Abdel The match which took 51 min- Pakistan, who are on a roll 26-ball 42 not out with three pulled them back significantly. “I’m trying to improve Diego Elias (PER) bt. [1] Mohamed ElShorbagy Gawad in straight sets. Farag utes, saw off the match 11-6, after whitewashing Australia boundaries but could not keep Pakistan dismissed Glenn constantly and put in every- (EGY) 11-8, 11-13, 13-11, 10-12, 11-7 (76m) will now take on the mantle of 14-12 and 11-6. 3-0 in Dubai on Sunday, now the run rate down as New Zea- Phillips (12), Munro, captain thing that I can. I have good Simon Rösner (GER) bt. [7] Paul Coll (NZL)8-11, favourite as he claimed the all- The semi-finals will be have a 1-0 lead in the three- land needed 53 in the last five Kane Williamson (11) and Colin memories from here last year, 11-9, 11-4, 12-10 (63m) Egyptian clash 11-9, 11-7, 11-8. held on Thurday from 5;30 match series with the last two overs. That was in contrast from de Grandhomme (six) as New it’s good to be back at the He will face third seed and pm Doha time. matches in Dubai on Friday and the first five overs of their in- Zealand stalled at 89-4.