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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2018

Al Gharafa hope to bounce back against Al Ahli in QNB Stars League PAGE 19 TEST AUSTRALIA VS INDIA

QATAR OLYMPIC COMMITTEE HOLDS 34TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY MEETING TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK DOHA

PRESIDENT of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al Thani on Wednesday at- tended the 34th General As- sembly meeting of the QOC. Along with Sheikh Joaan the QOC’s First Vice-President HE Sheikh Saud bin Ali al Thani, Second Vice-President Dr Thani al Kuwari, Secre- tary-General Jassim Rashid al Buenain, Presidents of Na- tional Federations, and Chair- persons of committees affili- ated to the QOC were present at the meeting. Sheikh Joaan thanked the National Federations for their efforts over the past year and encouraged them to continue supporting Team Qatar in achieving the best results and in their prepara- Qatar Olympic Committee President HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al Thani, Second Vice-President Dr Thani QOC officials, Presidents of National Federations, and Chairpersons of committees affiliated to QOC at the tions for 2020 Olympics in al Kuwari and Secretary-General Jassim Rashid al Buenain at the meeting on Wednesday. meeting at the QOC Headquarters on Wednesday. Tokyo, Japan. The meeting began with previous General Assembly The meeting also discussed agenda. The General Assembly teams at the 18th Asian Games Youth Olympic Games held in teams and athletes’ prepara- approving the minutes of the meeting held in October 2017. a number of topics on the reviewed the results of Qatari held in Indonesia and 3rd Argentina as well as the Qatari tions for the 2020 Olympics.

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MotoGP changes finish rule for riders who fall off Kohli makes light of the LONDON: MotoGP riders can be classified as race finish- ers in future even if they and their motorcycles cross the line separately, the sport’s hype surrounding him governing body (FIM) said on Wednesday. Under previous rules, riders had to be still on IANS success in his last visit. their machines at the cheq- ADELAIDE At Adelaide Oval, Kohli uered flag to finish and score has three hundreds from two points but the FIM’s Grand Prix MotoGP riders can be classified as MAKING light of the obses- Tests. “I love coming to this Commission decided a change race finishers in future even if they sion surrounding him ahead ground, the city in general. was needed. “There have and their motorcycles cross the line of the Australia Test series, I really enjoy the city, I don’t been situations when, due to separately. (REUTERS) India skipper Virat Kohli know what the connection is, a crash, the rider and machine on Wednesday said every but I just feel really good here. have crossed the line separately,” the International Motorcycling batsman in the side has the Not to say that the perfor- Federation said in a statement.” In future the finish time will be ability to win games single mances are always guaranteed determined by the first part of the rider or his motorcycle, whichever handedly and the hoopla in a certain place but yes, com- crosses the finish line last.” Dutch Moto3 entrant Bo Bendsneyder around him is something he ing to Adelaide I feel different fell metres from the finish at his home Grand Prix at Assen last cannot do anything about. from places that I have gone in year and was disqualified from 10th place because his riderless the world and that’s been the KTM had skidded across the line ahead of him. (REUTERS) case,” said Kohli. Asked about the Australian This (obsession) is team’s mindset post the ball Mauritius badminton official banned tampering saga, Kohli said: for life over corruption claims something that I don’t “I don’t think, personally, any believe in, at all. Whatever team should be totally negative KUALA LUMPUR: Badminton’s world governing body on Wednesday batsmen we have, all of after something like that hap- banned former council member Raj Gaya from the sport for life and them have so much ability pens (ball-tampering scandal). hit him with a fine of $50,000 over alleged misuse of funds. Gaya, that every one of them can “But the competitiveness from Mauritius, had since 1999 held positions with the Badminton will be there because you World Federation (BWF), the Badminton Confederation of Africa single-handedly turn eventually want to get the guys and the Mauritius Badminton Association (MBA). The BWF Ethics any game. out. If the situation is going Hearing Panel began investigating the official in June last year after your way, and you understand former MBA president Bassir Mungroo “raised several allegations” India Virat Kohli against the important guy in of corruption against him, it said in a report. The ethics panel said the opposition, you will go their probe revealed Gaya had diverted funds meant for the MBA “This (obsession) is some- hard at that person. Be it your to his personal bank account and used them “for his own benefit”. thing that I don’t believe in, at India captain Virat Kohli (left) and his Australian counterpart Tim Paine with the Border-Gavaskar Trophy body language or putting in a It also said he had exaggerated or falsified expense claims, forged all. Whatever batsmen we have, ahead of the first Test at the Adelaide Oval in Adelaide, Australia, on Wednesday.(AFP ) word or two.” official documents and refused to cooperate with the investigation. all of them have so much ability Gaya told officials he had used the funds for “badminton related that every one of them can sin- expenses”, as well as “political reasons” including “to get African gle-handedly turn any game,” Australia axe vice-captain Marsh, Khawaja returns Rohit, Vihari expected to battle for No. 6 slot people on his side”, according the report. (AFP) Kohli told reporters on the eve Australia sprang a surprise by axing vice-captain Mitch Marsh India selectors are expected to choose between specialist of India’s first rubber here. on Wednesday for the first Test against India, as Usman batsman Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Hanuma Vihari. The “This is something I believe Khawaja’s return was confirmed despite the shock of his pair, named in a 12-man roster released by the Indian board The heat is on: Tokyo 2020 marathon to start earlier in 120 per cent, and even they brother’s arrest. Batsmen Travis Head and Peter Handscomb on Wednesday, will battle for the number six slot vacated by TOKYO: The Tokyo 2020 Olympic marathon will start between have faith in themselves. On were preferred to the all-rounder, piling more pressure on injured fast-bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandya.Rohit played 5:30am and 6am, organisers announced Wednesday, after experts the outside what people think, the bowlers in what are forecast to be scorching conditions, the last of his 25 Tests against South Africa in January but raised concerns over the health of competitors and fans during the we cannot control. I cannot tell city’s sweltering summer heat. An expert medical committee had people to not to talk about it or while Marcus Harris will make his debut as opener. has experience in Australian conditions, having toured with proposed a start time “between 5:30am and 6am”, top Olympic write about it,” he added. “Mitch Marsh has not been as consistent as he would like the side in 2014-15. Selectors have opted for Mohd Shami, official John Coates said after a series of meetings in the Japanese A lot of talk has been on and we would like,” said captain Tim Paine. (AFP) Ishant Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah in pace attack. (REUTERS) capital. Organisers had already brought the marathon forward to how to stop Kohli from getting Squad: Marcus Harris, Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Team: Virat Kohli (captain), Murali Vijay, L Rahul, Cheteshwar Pu- 7am as Japanese medical groups have warned the event could runs in this part of the world Travis Head, Peter Handscomb, Tim Paine (captain), Josh Hazle- jara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, “lead to deaths” from heatstroke. Tokyo 2020 organisers still need where the World’s No.1 bats- wood, Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc. R Ashwin, , Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah. to agree with IAAF before fixing the exact time, said Coates.(AFP) man has enjoyed enormous Qualifying standards for World Athletics Championships Doha 2019 approved

IAAF There will also be an in- Budapest to hosts the title of European Capital of the Danube River on the city’s MONACO crease in the number of teams 2023 Worlds Sport for 2019. south side, with a capacity qualified from the IAAF World The Hungarian capital Bu- “In the past 30 years of 40,000 for the champion- THE IAAF Council on Relays from eight to 10 in the dapest has been awarded the Hungary has organised every ships, which will be reduced to Wednesday approved the 4x100m and 4x400m relays, IAAF World Athletics Cham- single world and European 15,000 for future events. Qualifying standards for the for a total of 16 entries. For the pionships in 2023. Championships, indoor and Following the bid delega- IAAF World Athletics Cham- 4x400m mixed relay, which will Budapest is an experi- out – on the road, cross coun- tion’s presentation to Coun- pionships Doha 2019. be contested for the first time, 12 enced organiser of major ath- try – available to us except for cil, IAAF President Sebastian While the performance teams will qualify from the IAAF letics events, having hosted the World Athletics Champi- Coe said: “We are delighted to standards themselves are sim- World Relays in Yokohama. the IAAF World Indoor Cham- onships, and we are incredibly award the 2023 World Athlet- ilar to those used for the 2017 The qualifying standards pionships in 1989 and 2004, proud that this collection will ics Championships to Buda- World Championships, Doha should be referenced with the one of just two cities to have be complete in just under five pest in Hungary, a country of 2019 will witness two notable Qualification System and Entry staged the event twice. The years’ time,” said Marton Gy- extraordinary athletic tradi- differences: Target numbers Standards updated this week. city has also hosted the Euro- ulai, CEO of the Bid Commit- tion and great experience in have been introduced for the The Council also voted to pean Athletics Championships tee for Budapest 2023. A key organising world-class sports road events and 10,000m permit national teams, for the on two occasions, in 1966 and component of the bid is the events. It has been the scene of races – 100 for marathons, 60 first time, to display the logo of 1998. More recently, Budapest construction of a new stadium some of our greatest moments for the 20km race walks, 50 a national sponsor on their kit hosted the FINA World Swim- that will serve primarily as an as a sport. We are excited for the men’s 50km race walk for the IAAF World Athletics ming Championships and the athletics facility. about their plans for a new sta- and 30 for the women’s, and Championships (WCH) at the World Judo Championships IAAF President Sebastian Coe (2nd right) at the signing ceremony for The new stadium will be dium that will become a great 27 for the 10,000m 2019 championships in Doha. in 2017 and has been awarded Budapest 2023 World Championships in Monaco. built on the eastern bank of legacy for athletics.” Sports Thursday, December 6, 2018 17 Kobelt surprises THIRD PAKISTAN VS NEW ZEALAND TEST MATCH seventh seed Statzberger in Qatar F4 tennis Qatar’s Zayid impressive in three-set loss to fifth seed Karatsev

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK brilliantly and aced his oppo- DOHA nent by 9-1. However, he could not use the second serve to his PETER Kobelt exploited his advantage and surrendered in hard court experience well and two hours and six minutes. upset seventh seed Thomas After splitting the first two Statzberger in straight sets in sets, Zayid lost his first ser- the Qatar F4 Futures Tennis vice game and trailed 1-4. He Tournament at the Khalifa In- rallied back and twice came ternational Tennis and Squash within two games to prolong Complex here on Wednesday. his challenge (2-4 and 3-5). He The American fired eight twice faced the match point in aces to two by his Austrian the eighth game but foiled his rival before advancing to opponent to force the ninth. the quarter-finals with a fine Karatsev was too strong at 7-6(4), 6-4 triumph as their this stage and held his service first meeting lasted one hour at love to book his Portuguese and 44 minutes. Bernardo Saraiva, the top- The crucial break for Kob- seed vanquisher winning his elt, whose all the four Futures second round against Bela- titles have come on the hard rusian Mikalai Haliak at 6-1, surface, came in the ninth 6-3. game when he allowed Statz- Second seed Goncalo Ol- berger just one point. He then iveira was embroiled in a bit- held his serve to complete ter battle for survival against the third upset the event wit- Russian Shalva Dzhanashiya. nessed in two days. However, the Portuguese es- Kobelt’s next rival is Greek caped a freak decider to post a qualifier Michail Pervolarakis, thrilling 6-3, 5-7, 6-4 victory in who ousted Russian Alexan- two hours and 28 minutes. der Igoshin 6-2, 7-6(6). In a roller-coaster third Local player Mubarak set, which began with both Pakistan’s -makers Azhar Ali (left) and during the third day of the third and final match against New Zealand at the Sheikh Zayed International Shannan Zayid resisted fifth losing their seves. They went Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday. (AFP) seed Aslan Karatsev from Rus- on to trade more breaks and it sia bravely but faded in the was in the 10th game when Ol- third and decider, losing 3-6, iveira pulled off the victory off 7-6(5), 3-6. The Qatari served his second match point. Azhar, Shafiq smash RESULTS

Singles (second round) Bernardo SARAIVA (POR) 6-1 6-3 Mikalai HALIAK (BLR) Aslan KARATSEV (RUS) [5] 6-3 6-7(5) 6-3 Mubarak Shannan ZAYID (QAT) Evgenii TIURNEV (RUS) [4] 6-4 6-3 Jaimee Floyd ANGELE (FRA) Duje AJDUKOVIC (CRO) 6-2 6-2 Antoine BELLIER (SUI) Peter KOBELT (USA) 7-6(4) 6-4 Thomas STATZBERGER (AUT) [7] Michail PERVOLARAKIS (GRE) 6-2 7-6(6) Alexander IGOSHIN (RUS) tons, put Pak on top Zizou BERGS (BEL) [6] 6-4 6-1 Alexandar LAZAROV (BUL Goncalo OLIVEIRA (POR) [2] 6-3 5-7 6-4 Shalva DZHANASHIYA (RUS)

Doubles (first round) The two players muster 201 runs for the fourth ; Pakistan strike two blows after a slump G OLIVEIRA (POR)/ B SARAIVA (POR) [1] 7-5 6-1 P MAYER (GER) / N SCHELL (GER) A DONSKI (BUL)/ A LAZAROV (BUL) 7-5 6-7(2) [10-6] M CUTULI (ITA) / M Shanan ZAYED (QAT) AFP est to 200 , in his hundred against New Zea- V ORLOV (UKR) /M PERVOLARAKIS (GRE) [3] 6-2 6-3 S DZHANASHIYA (RUS) / O KHOTKOV (UKR) SCOREBOARD M HALIAK (BLR) /A LIAONENKA (BLR) 7-6(4) 3-6 [10-5] K LOZAN (RUS) / R MUZAEV (RUS) ABU DHABI 33rd Test, a record currently land. Guy DEN HEIJER (NED) /S PONTJODIKROMO (NED) 7-5 6-4 A ROGIC HADZALIC (CRO) / M SPEC (SLO) NEW ZEALAND (1ST INNINGS): 274 Bowling: Southee 25-5-56-1, Boult 26-7-66-2, held by Australian leg-spin- He took 210 balls to reach A IGOSHIN (RUS) / E TIURNEV (RUS) [4] 6-1 6-3 P HELLER (GER) / T STATZBERGER (AUT) AZHAR Ali and Asad Shafiq PAKISTAN (1ST INNINGS, OVERNIGHT 139-3): Grandhomme 13-2-36-0 (1nb), Patel 35-5-100-2, ner Clarrie Grimmett who the three-figure mark, before A VIRGILI (ITA) / M Shannan ZAYID (QAT) 6-4 6-4 J al MUTAWA (QAT) / A ZHURBIN (RUS) hit centuries to leave Pakistan Imam-ul-Haq c Southee b Boult 9 Somerville 36-8-75-4. reached the milestone in 36 being caught sweeping off M GINER (ESP) / J PLA MALFEITO (ESP) [2] 6-7(2) 6-3 [10-8] A BELLIER (SUI) / K FRIBERG (SWE)) c Southee b Boult 0 in command of the third and Azhar Ali c Patel b Somerville 134 NEW ZEALAND (2ND INNINGS): Tests, 82 years ago. Somerville, just before tea. final Test against New Zealand Haris Sohail c Watling b Southee 34 J. Raval lbw b Shaheen 0 Shafiq said Pakistan must Shafiq brought up his in Abu Dhabi despite a batting Asad Shafiq lbw b Patel 104 T. Latham c Sohail b Yasir 10 limit New Zealand in their 12th Test ton with a sharp collapse that curtailed their Babar Azam b Somerville 14 K. Williamson 14 second innings after his side single off Somerville before Sarfraz Ahmed c Raval b Somerville 25 W. Somerville not out 1 first-innings lead. Bilal Asif c Taylor b Patel 11 Extras: (lb 1) 1 failed to chase down 176 in falling leg-before to Patel to a Azhar hit an attractive run out 1 Total: (for two wkts; 14 overs) 26 the first Test. straight . 134 for his 15th Test hundred Hasan Ali b Somerville 0 Still to bat: R. Taylor, H. Nicholls, BJ Watling, C. de “It’s always nice to bat Somerville then had while Shafiq scored 104, but Shaheen Shah Afridi not out 0 Grandhomme, Ajaz Patel, T. Southee, T. Boult with Azhar,” said Shafiq. “But Azam and Hasan Ali (nought) Extras: (b 6, lb 9, nb 1) 16 Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Raval), 2-24 (Latham) debutant New Zealand off- Total: (all out; 135 overs) 348 Bowling: Hasan 4-3-2-0, Shaheen 3-0-11-1, Yasir 4-1- it was disappointing that we bowled and wrapped up the spinner Will Somerville took Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Hafeez), 2-17 (Imam), 3-85 5-1, Asif 3-0-7-0. couldn’t get a big lead. It hap- innings by getting Sarfraz four wickets to restrict Paki- (Sohail), 4-286 (Azhar), 5-304 (Shafiq), 6-312 (Azam), pens in cricket and you have caught at mid-wicket. stan to 348 all out. 7-333 (Asif), 8-346 (Yasir), 9-347 (Hasan) Toss: New Zealand to give credit to the bowlers. Earlier, Azhar and Shafiq Pakistan appeared set to “We need to get them out frustrated New Zealand’s build a huge lead before col- quickly tomorrow so that we search for early wickets as lapsing from 286-3 to lose Azhar hit an attractive 134 for his 15th Test hundred don’t need to chase a lot of they took Pakistan to 224-3 their final seven wickets for while Shafiq scored 104, but debutant New Zealand off- runs.” at lunch. the addition of just 62 runs. spinner Will Somerville took four wickets to restrict Azhar and Shafiq put on New Zealand skipper Wil- The 34-year-old Somer- Pakistan to 348 all out 201 for the fourth wicket, liamson took the second new ville finished with 4-75 while but once they were dismissed ball in the 81st over with Pa- left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel only Sarfraz Ahmed (25) kistan comfortably placed took 2-100 and pace spear- New Zealand were then Paceman Shaheen Shah and Babar Azam (14) offered at 213-3, but the bowlers head Trent Boult chipped in reduced to 26-2 at stumps Afridi trapped Jeet Raval for some resistance. struggled to extract much life with 2-66. with un- nought while leg-spinner Ya- Azhar edged medium from a flat pitch at the Sheikh That gave Pakistan a 74- beaten on 14 and night- sir Shah had pacer Zayed Stadium. run lead -- the same advan- watchman Somerville on caught for ten, his 199th through the slips to complete Pakistan levelled the se- tage they held in the first Test one not out to leave them wicket in Tests. his first century since May ries with an innings and 16- Local lad Mubarak Shannan Zayid, who went out of the Qatar F4 at the same venue before los- trailing by 48 runs with Yasir needs just one more 2017 against the West Indies run win in the second Test in Futures tennis in Doha after a gritty display on Wednesday. ing by four runs. eight wickets intact. wicket to become the fast- in Dominica - and his first Dubai. Save the Dream promotes sports volunteerism Bravo stages return for at International Volunteer Forum in Russia Bangladesh ODIs AFP lows us to narrow our search TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK Speaking of Save the Dream’s over- DHAKA for our final 15-member World DOHA all mission promoting and protecting Cup squad,” chairman of se- the values of sport in young people, MIDDLE-ORDER batsman lectors Courtney Browne said A few days after the announcement and the role of volunteerism, Dr. Bah- was recalled in a statement. of its International Volunteer Project ruz Balayev said: “Sport volunteerism on Wednesday after more “Darren’s experience from the United Nations Headquarters has grown to become a form of global than two years away from will add value to the batting, in New York, delegates from Save the citizenship and has overcome the bor- ODI cricket as the West In- which in turn will place selec- Dream joined a host of global experts ders of nations. We have to concentrate dies named a 15-man squad tion pressure for spots in the and game changers during the Interna- on mobility of volunteers now, while for their three-match series squad.” tional Volunteer Forum in Russia for a the momentum is growing” against Bangladesh. The second and third thought provoking panel discussion on During the event, Dr. Balayev met Left-handed Bravo won matches of the series will be “Volunteers and Wide-Scale Events: with Sergey Kiriyenko, First Deputy the last of his 96 one-day in- held on December 11 and 14 in New Opportunities” Chief of Staff of the Presidential Ad- ternational caps against Pa- Dhaka and Sylhet. The four-day forum, which brought ministration of Russia, and Chairman kistan in October 2016, but Bangladesh swept West together over 15,000 world leaders, of the Organising Committee of the returns after featuring in the Indies 2-0 in the recent Test members and representatives of vol- Year of Volunteer in Russia. Future co- West Indies’ recent series, with the second Test unteer and charity organisations and operation on volunteer programmes, series in India. wrapping up on Sunday inside civil activists marked on Wednesday involvement of volunteers from Russia Regular T20 skipper Car- three days as the Tigers re- the conclusion of the Year of the Vol- A picture of the panel discussion on Volunteers and Wide-Scale Events - New and support were discussed. During los Brathwaite and Roston corded their first-ever victory unteer. Opportunities during International Volunteer Forum in Russia. the meeting, Kiriyenko noted that 14 Chase were also brought back by an innings margin. On December 6, 2017, President million Russians have volunteered in for the ODI series starting in The Caribbean visitors Vladimir Putin proclaimed the year Participating in the panel discus- 2019” Foundation, Ulyana Kolesniko- 2018, double the number last year. The Dhaka on Sunday. made just 111 runs in their 2018 to be the Year of Volunteer in the sion were, Artem Metelev, Chairman of va, Head of the Volunteer Department World Cup in Russia saw a rise of the In the absence of injured first innings -- the lowest Test Russian Federation. The session on the Council of the Association of Vol- of the Autonomous Non-Commercial number of sport volunteers. , batsman Rov- score ever recorded against “Volunteers and Wide-Scale Events: unteer Centers, member of the Public Organisation “Executive Directorate of It was also discussed that a pro- man Powell was named inter- their hosts -- to become the New Opportunities” included discus- Chamber of the Russian Federation, the XXIX World Winter Universiade gramme to increase the mobility of im captain as the visitors seek first side Bangladesh has ever sions of the successful implementa- Bahruz Balayev, Leader of the Save 2019 in Krasnoyarsk”, Dmitry Kartash- volunteers is planned to be imple- to make amends for their 2-1 asked to follow-on. tion of the 2018 World Cup volunteer the Dream volunteers programme, ov, First Deputy Director, Roscongress mented to further encourage volun- home series defeat to Bangla- SQUAD: Rovman Powell (Capt), Marlon Samuels, programme. This is expected to be Nadezhda Anisovets, Head of the Foundation and Tatyana Gomzyakova, teer participation during the organi- desh in July. Devendra Bishoo, , Chandrapaul Hemraj, replicated during the championships Volunteer Department, Cultural and Director of the Volunteer Department sation of major sporting events that “With two more ODI Se- , Darren Bravo, , Carlos scheduled in Qatar and Olympics in Educational Programmes of the “Di- of the Organising Committee “Russia will be held in Russia and abroad from ries before the 2019 World Brathwaite, , , , Tokyo. rectorate of the II European Games of – 2018.” 2019 to 2024. Cup, the Bangladesh series al- , , . 18 Thursday, December 6, 2018 Sports beIN hosts Asian Cup trophy, unveils dedicated channels for 17th edition

Arab countries competing for beIN Media all the coveted trophy. The tournament will be the set to host the richest-ever with the new $14.8 million prize purse. A new biggest-ever AFC match ball sponsor in Molten and the use of the Video Assis- Asian Cup live tance Referees system from the and exclusive quarter-finals stage have also been introduced to enhance the on its channels stature of the competition. The media group which has AYENI OLUSEGUN rights to most of the world’s DOHA biggest sporting events, will have two dedicated 24/7 chan- THE Asian Cup trophy con- nels with over 270 hours of live tinued its tour of Qatar with coverage available exclusively a stopover at the 2019 Asian for the AFC Asian Cup UAE Cup Tournament’s host broad- 2019, as well as 20 hours of ex- caster beIN’s headquarters on clusive programmes including Wednesday. documentaries on the 11 Arab beIN Media Group is set to teams participating in the tour- host the biggest-ever AFC Asian nament. Cup Tournament live and ex- Presenters from all over clusive on its channels. The the region including Moham- 17th edition of Asia’s biggest ed Saadon al Kuwari, Ayman football show is taking place Jadah, Lakhdar Berriche and in the United Arab Emirates Asia Abdallah will host special across four cities and eight ven- guests and conduct exclusive ues from January 5 to February interviews with 21 dedicated 1, 2019. beIN studios available for the During a media tour of beIN tournament, in addition to 51 facilities in Doha, the Group’s live matches with both Arabic Director of Program Duncan and English commentary. Walkinshaw said, “This is the beIN’s unique statistical- continent’s biggest football based ‘Match Center’ format event and being the host broad- will help bring live statistical Star beIN commentators and star guests with 2019 Asian Cup trophy and the official match ball for the 17th edition of the tournament at the beIN headquarters in Doha on Wednesday. caster we are dedicated to deliv- and historical data to sub- ering the best to our subscrib- scribers in-game. Viewers ers. For the tournament, beIN will also have the opportu- will have over 200 crew mem- nity to join in the discussions bers in production, ground surrounding the live games crew and reporting.” through the use of the AFC The sprawling beIN head- Asian Cup UAE 2019 hashtag quarters boasts of nine state- #beINAFC as beIN takes its of-the-art studios for various coverage across all digital and events like the English Premier social platforms. League, Spanish La Liga, Euro The live coverage will start League Basketball and many at 12:00 midday Mecca Time other. The complex also hous- (GMT +3) each day and run es various offices and studios continuously until midnight. for broadcasting live content Along with the live studios sur- across all its channels. rounding the games, beIN will The magnificent trophy, compliment its coverage with which is replacing the 2015 edi- a daily morning show from tion’s trophy, was unveiled to 8:00am to 9:00am followed the media much to the delight later in the day with its evening of many who wanted to get a show ‘Allo beIN’. first-hand feel of the prestigious The ‘beIN ASIA’ Arabic silverware. They wanted to get show, will be broadcast from their pictures clicked with the January 3 onwards and it will trophy, while many chose to go offer beIN viewers key sum- for the ‘selfies’. maries of every match sup- For the first time, the AFC plemented by exclusive inter- Asian Cup will see 24 qualified views with players, coaches teams, up from the traditional and fans of the participating 16, with an unprecedented 11 national teams. The beIN Production Control Room and one of the many state-of-the-art studios at the beIN headquarters in Doha. Despite calls to desist, BeoutQ continues pirate broadcasts

OOTBALL’S ruling body FIFA said at the Serena Williams World Cup it is taking with her 2017 legal action and now Australian Open theF European Commission has trophy. also voiced grave concern over pirate network BeoutQ which is illegally broadcasting inter- national football matches and other sports. The network went on air after last year’s start of a Saudi Arabia-led diplomatic Serena, Murray confirmed for and trade boycott of Qatar, and takes its feed from Qatar- based beIN Sports. There are strong indica- 2019 Australian Open return tions it is located in the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh and DPA/REUTERS World number ones Novak short of Australian Margaret broadcasts via Riyadh-based MELBOURNE Djokovic and Simona Halep Court’s tally of Grand Slam and Saudi-owned Arabsat. beoutQ stealing opening games of Premier League and Ligue 1 was also condemned. head up the men’s and wom- singles titles. “We expect Saudi Arabia SERENA Williams and Andy en’s fields respectively while Her final match last sea- to react swiftly and to step up is Saudi Arabia. gramme director Duncan Murray will return to the Roger Federer and Caroline son was the final at Flushing its measures against piracy,” a Receivers can only be paid BeoutQ has made efforts to Walkinshow insisted. Australian Open next month, Wozniacki will return to Meadow, where her loss to European Commission source from Saudi Arabian bank ac- disguise where its feed “It makes me incredibly the tournament confirmed on defend their titles. Naomi Osaka was overshad- told DPA. counts and a seller with a comes from, such as con- angry. That’s our work. They Wednesday as it announced Serena will resume her owed by her row with umpire Saudi Arabia for its part Saudi phone number says they (Arabsat) can just press a but- that the world’s top 102 wom- quest for a record-equalling Carlos Ramos. denies any involvement. cost around $100. stantly placing the BeoutQ ton and turn it off.” en and top 101 men are set to 24th Grand Slam title at the Williams is scheduled to beIN Sport was originally The issue heated up when logo over that from beIN. The issue also affects fu- compete. tournament she won for a sev- play an exhibition tournament founded by popular Qatar BeoutQ distributed via sat- But beIN has now intro- ture sports rights sales which Britain’s Murray has been enth time on her last appear- in Abu Dhabi in the final week of network Al Jazeera and has ellite games from the 2018 duced a floating watermark is a huge billion-dollar opera- struggling to recover from a ance in 2017. the year before heading to Aus- the regional rights for most World Cup in Russia, using – which BeoutQ can’t hide. tion, as beIN communications hip injury and skipped this The 37-year-old American tralia to warm-up for her assault major sports events, such as beIN’s signal and subsequent- director David Sugden sug- year’s contest, but has entered achieved her victory over sis- on the Melbourne Park title at the World Cup, Champions ly that of other broadcasters. gested the network may no using his protected ranking. ter Venus in the final two years the Hopman Cup in Perth. League and major European It prompted FIFA to say with his commentary - and with longer be willing to pay similar Williams also missed the ago while eight weeks preg- Reigning champion Rog- domestic leagues, or tennis towards the end of the tourna- a standard eight-second delay. prices as in the past. 2018 tournament after giv- nant with her daughter Alexis er Federer will be gunning events such as Wimbledon. ment it “has engaged counsel The German Football “We will evaluate this in ing birth to her first child. The Olympia, who was born the for a record seventh men’s Once the boycott started, to take legal action in Saudi League has named the net- our rights purchasing deci- seven-time champion, who following September. single crown from Jan. 14- Saudi Arabia prohibited Al Ja- Arabia ... to protect its inter- work “a Saudi Arabian pirate sion,” he said. last won the Grand Slam while Williams reached the 27, while Caroline Wozniacki zeera and beIN broadcasts in est” and called on authorities offer” and said it would “pro- Qatar 2022 World Cup eight-weeks pregnant in 2017, Wimbledon and US Open fi- will embark on her maiden its territory. in Saudi Arabia “to support us tect its rights and that of its organising committee deputy has had a rocky return to the nals after her return last year grand slam title defence at Shortly before BeoutQ in the fight against piracy.” licensee beIN.” Secretary-General Nasser al game this year. but lost both, leaving her one Melbourne Park. went on air, Saud al Qahtani, BeoutQ has made efforts to Tennis bodies spoke of Khater also referred to the who is close to Saudi crown disguise where its feed comes “industrial-size illegal piracy” rights situation when he urged prince Mohammad bin Sal- from, such as constantly placing as they called for an immediate a joint effort against BeoutQ man, tweeted in June 2017 the BeoutQ logo over that from closure of BeoutQ in July in a while visiting the Russia Quick read that there would soon be a new beIN. But beIN has now intro- statement on the Wimbledon World Cup. solution, free of charge or for a duced a floating watermark – website which prompted a furi- “Everybody should take a Over 1,000 players register for IPL 2019 auction symbolic price. which BeoutQ can’t hide. ous response from Saudi Arabia. stand, all broadcasters, even BeoutQ’s website is only “This is theft,” says Tuni- At beIN they are naturally if they have not been affected, MUMBAI: Maintaining a trend, 1003 players, including 232 overseas cricketers, have signed up for the available in Saudi Arabia sian Naoufel Bachi after his most unhappy. should take a stand. All fed- (IPL) player auction set to take place in Jaipur on December 18, the Board of and selected other countries commentary on a German “That is not a piracy erations should take a stand,” Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on Wednesday. Aiming to fill up the available 70 spots are such as Egypt. It says that Bundesliga match between channel from a garage or a he said. 200 capped players, 800 uncapped and three players from Associate Nations. Of the 800 uncapped, companies from Colombia Leipzig and Leverkusen for bedroom. That’s an unprec- “We should not forget that, 746 are Indians. Franchises will now have time until 5 p.m. IST on December 10 to submit their short- and Cuba are behind it. Ar- beIN from Doha. edented fairly sophisticated for all federations, TV is bread listed players, who will make up the final auction list.(IANS) absat’s majority shareholder BeoutQ broadcast this game operation,” beIN sports pro- and butter.” (DPA) Sports Thursday, December 6, 2018 19 City defy late Watford push Malaysia reach AFF final as to move five points clear Thailand miss late penalty

REUTERS was bundled over his own goal HONG KONG line by Irfan Zakaria. Seven minutes later the MALAYSIA reached the Asean Malaysians were level on the Football Federation Cham- night and ahead by virtue of pionship final on away goals the away goals rule. after a 2-2 draw with holders The move started when Thailand in the semi-final, sec- Malaysia keeper Farizal Marli- ond leg on Wednesday as Adi- as rolled the ball out and end- sak Kraisorn missed a late pen- ed seven quick-fire passes later alty for the hosts in Bangkok. with Syahmi Safari smashing a The teams shared a 0-0 right-foot shot from the edge first leg in Kuala Lumpur on of the penalty area into the top Saturday and Norshahrul corner of Chatchai Budrom’s Idlan Talaha’s 71st minute goal. equaliser to make it 2-2 kept Thailand reclaimed the alive Malaysia hopes of a first advantage three minutes after title since 2010. the hour when Pansa Hem- The agonising miss by viboon scored at the second striker Adisak, the tourna- attempt with a header after ment’s top scorer, six minutes the Malaysia defence failed into added time denied the to clear substitute Sumanya Thais a fourth final in a row as Purisai’s free kick. he skied the spot-kick over the But eight minutes later bar. Norshahrul gave Malaysia Malaysia will meet Viet- the edge in the tie once again nam or the Philippines in the when he controlled Syamer two-legged final on Dec. 11 and Kutty Abba’s low cross before 15, with the Vietnamese hold- smashing his shot beyond ing a 2-1 lead from the first Chatchai. leg when they meet again on The Thais pushed for a Thursday. winner, with Pansa’s header Thailand were looking clipping the crossbar late on Manchester City’s Leroy Sane celebrates scoring his goal with Riyad Mahrez and teammates at Vicarage Road in Watford on Tuesday. (AFP) to extend their champion- before Syahmi’s handball ship-winning streak to three earned the home side a penal- AFP football.” Pep Guardiola made that appeared to miss Aymeric the back post and he cleverly personal seasons by giving the this year and Milovan Raje- ty - and the defender a second LONDON six changes to his starting line- Laporte as the Frenchman was used his chest to power the ball hosts a 2-0 lead inside 22 min- vac’s side went in front after booking - only for Adisak to up despite also missing Sergio rotated for the first time in the below Foster. utes before Terence Kongolo 21 minutes when Thitipan fire high over the bar as their MANCHESTER City opened Aguero and Kevin De Bruyne league this season. Six minutes into the second pulled a goal back for the Ter- Puangchan’s goalward header title hopes ended. up a five-point lead at the top through injury. Roberto Pereyra has al- half, the visitors struck again riers. of the table with a seventh Yet, City were still too ready produced some spec- when Gabriel Jesus -- who Brighton edged into the top straight Premier League vic- strong for the dogged hosts tacular goals for the Hornets endured another lean night in half as despite playing for over tory, but were made to work for the vast majority of the this season and the Argentine front of goal in the absence of an hour with 10 men, they beat for a 2-1 win at Watford on game with Watford thankful to was inches away from another Aguero -- at least made a con- Crystal Palace 3-1. Tuesday. goalkeeper Ben Foster for the when he curled just wide in- tribution as a provider by pull- The hosts led 1-0 through City’s goals came either visitors not racking up the 5-0 side 10 minutes. ing the ball back for Mahrez to Glenn Murray’s penalty before side of half-time as Leroy Sane and 6-0 thrashings they did on City soon took control, fire home. Shane Duffy saw a straight red, chested home to end Wat- their two previous visits to Vic- though, and Foster made a City got uncharacteristi- but further goals before half- ford’s resistance before Riyad arage Road. brilliant save to deny Sane af- cally slack in the final quarter, time from Leon Balogun and Mahrez swept home early in Guardiola changed his en- ter the German had intercept- though, and were made to pay Florin Andone sealed the three the second period. tire back four from Saturday’s ed a wayward Pereyra pass. when Doucoure finally turned points despite Luka Milivoje- However, they had to with- 3-1 win over Bournemouth and The former England inter- home after a goalmouth scram- vic’s late consolation from the stand a nervy finish after Ab- left the in-form Raheem Ster- national also spread himself ble. Guardiola was forced to penalty spot. doulaye Doucoure bundled ling on the bench for the full 90 well to claw away Mahrez’s at- throw on Laporte and Nicolas West Ham’s upward tra- home five minutes from time. minutes. tempted dink over the ‘keeper. Otamendi in the closing stages jectory also continued as three “It was a good old Premier Mahrez came in for the Yet, the best save of the to repel Watford’s aerial as- goals in 12 second-half min- League game, as soon as they England international and the opening half came down the sault, but City held on. utes beat Cardiff 3-1. scored long balls start coming, luxury of options on offer to other end when Ederson Elsewhere, Bournemouth Lucas Perez replaced the they are extremely physical up Guardiola was obvious as both stretched out his left foot to moved above Manchester injured Marko Arnautovic in front,” said City captain Vin- his wide men found the net in block Troy Deeney’s effort United, who host Arsenal on the first half and went onto cent Kompany. Sterling’s absence. from point-blank range. Wednesday, up to sixth thanks score his first two league goals “We managed the game However, Watford were left Moments later, City were to a 2-1 win over Huddersfield. since a summer move from Ar- Malaysian players celebrate with coach Tan Cheng Hoe after a nailbit- pretty well. You can’t win to rue their chances before the finally in front. Mahrez’s cross Callum Wilson and Ryan senal before Michail Antonio ing draw with Thailand during the second leg of the AFF Suzuki Cup every game playing fantasy break against a City defence picked out Sane unmarked at Fraser continued their fine added a third. 2018 semi-final match in Bangkok on Wednesday. (AFP)

Al Gharafa hope to bounce WORKERS’ CUP 2019 KICK-OFF ON FRIDAY Southampton name Ralph back against Al Ahli Over 600 players to compete for Hasenhuettl TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK are unbeaten in seven matches. as new boss DOHA Therefore, the confrontation seventh edition of Workers’ Cup DPA will be difficult and we have to AL Gharafa coach Christian correct our mistakes and be at LONDON Gourcuff says their QNB Stars our best in order to score a vic- a key tournament in Qatar’s League Week 15 match against tory. “I spoke to the players in sporting calendar. STRUGGLING Premier League Al Ahli will be tough on Thurs- the aftermath of our defeat to “Over the years we’ve seen side Southampton on Wednes- day, after last weekend’s em- Al Sadd and tried to instill con- the event contribute to im- day named Austrian Ralph barrassing 8-1 defeat at Al fidence in them. We also dis- proving the health and well- Hasenhuettl as its new manager. Sadd. The 8-1 maul is one of cussed how to make up for that ness of people engaged on The 51-year-old agreed a two- their biggest defeats in recent in the game against Al Ahli,” he 2022 FIFA World Cup™ pro- and-a-half year deal until 2021 memory. added. jects and I’ve no doubt this and will replace Mark Hughes, “It will not be easy for us Al Gharafa will be without year’s tournament will bring who was sacked on Monday, Wesley Sneijder, Fahd al Sham- more success – both on and Southampton said in a statement mari, Almahdi Ali and Khalid off the field. on their website. Abdul Raouf, who are all nurs- “I’m looking forward to a Hasenhuettl has been out ing injuries. stand-out edition of the tour- of work since May after ending a Al Ahli are unbeaten in nament and I wish everyone two-year spell with Leipzig in Ger- seven consecutive games and the best of luck.” many, whom he took to runners- would hope to extend the Akram al Hamdawi, cap- up in Germany’s Bundesliga in streak. Al Ahli coach Milan Ma- tain of last year’s winners, his first season. He is now the first cala said ahead of the match, Austrian manager in the Premier “Al Gharafa are strong and League. “This manager change of- fierce competitors though they Football fers us a fresh start and, very quick- lost to Al Sadd by a 1-8 margin ly, Ralph emerged as our ideal can- in the last round. Our perfor- for all didate,” Southampton chairman mance has improved in the re- “It’s a matter of pride for the Ralph Krueger said. cent times. We are unbeaten in QSL to organise a highly “As a coach, he embodies the seven matches.” QSL and SC officials during the draw of the Workers’ Cup in Aspire Park recently. popular event that provides all passion, structure, communica- Macala added that the sports fans with a platform to tion skill set, work ethic and appe- Al Gharafa coach Christain team’s goal from the beginning watched by 8,000 fans. tite for growth that we strive for in Gourcuff of the season was to avoid rel- The cup is gaining in popularity with Speaking after the draw, play the game, keep them our Southampton Way. The quick, egation. “Now that we are in Hassan Rabiah al Kuwari, healthy and test their smooth and seamless negotiation against Al Ahli, especially since safe zone, we are trying to put workers and companies every year Executive Director of Mar- footballing skills.” process underlines the character of we are coming off a heavy loss pressure on the competitors keting, Sales and Communi- the person that he is.” to Al Sadd (1-8) in the last and we are seeking a top-four TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK Cleaning Company. cations at the QSL, said, “Yet Krueger said Hasenhuettl fits round. Any match is worth only position.” “I am happy that we DOHA The title will be contested another Workers’ Cup and Nakheel Landscapes, said: the mould of manager that South- three points maximum, but will be able to field Ahmed Su- by a number of companies yet another opportunity for “Taking part in the Workers’ ampton have encouraged over the big-margin loss was a great hail. I watched him in action in THE seventh edition of the who have direct links to the us to engage with the soci- Cup gives all of us a chance the years. “Southampton Football shock for us. I hope to achieve Qatar’s friendly with Syria. He Workers’ Cup, the annual SC and its flagship legacy ety, aligning with our corpo- to enjoy the magical spirit of Club’s past success was built on a positive result which will help is a good player. It is good that football tournament organ- programme, Generation rate social responsibility. The football. Nothing unites peo- a clear identity,” he said. “The the team make a strong come- there are many young players ised by the Qatar Stars League Amazing. More than 600 tournament, into its seventh ple like football and winning foundation of this identity was back,” Gourcuff said at the pre- in the squad,” said Macala. (QSL) and sponsored by the players are expected to take edition, has grown in stat- the competition last year a focus on developing players, match press conference. Bottom club Al Kharaitiyat Supreme Committee for De- to the field during the event, ure, making a positive impact brought the management whether from within our acad- Al Gharafa have lost six face draw-specialist Al Rayyan livery & Legacy (SC), will including current and former on the members of Qatar’s and workers closer together.” emy or after joining from other games this season and their last at Al Khor Stadium. Al Rayyan kick off on Friday at Al Sadd contractors engaged on 2022 community using the power Speaking at the draw, clubs. two, the Cheetahs tactician said are fourth in the table and any Sports Club. FIFA World Cup projects. of football. It’s a matter of Richard Donkor, captain of “Ralph’s ability to teach the he had cautioned his players result short of a win will push The draw for the 2019 Matches for the 2019 pride for the QSL to organise last year’s runners-up, Doha game and to develop talent is that they were heading for three the Lions down to four position. tournament was recently con- tournament will be played a highly popular event that Pest Control, said: “The evident in his past and is a cen- strong games. Al Kharaitiyat’s fitness ducted at Al Aziziyah Bou- every Friday at Al Sadd Sports provides all sports fans with tournament gives a platform trepiece of why he is the per- “We played against Al Sail- coach Ahmed Badarudeen said: tique Hotel in Aspire Park, Club until the showpiece fi- a platform to play the game, for our players to showcase fect choice to be the new Saints iya and Al Sadd, and lost both “We are ready and our players where SC and QSL repre- nal on 25 January. General keep them healthy and test their talents and enjoy them- manager.” matches. Now, we are into the are determined to play a good sentatives were joined by the admission to the final is free their footballing skills.” selves. We enjoy a real sense Hughes joined Southamp- third, against Al Ahli. game. Al Rayyan are a strong captains and coaches of last and everyone is welcome to Fatma al Nuaimi, the of harmony and unity when ton in March and helped them “Al Ahli are a tough side. side and we respect them. We year’s finalists – champions attend. More than 15,000 SC’s Communications Direc- we play together and we hope avoid relegation but the south- They have achieved good re- had found it tough against Nakheel Landscapes and run- people attended last year’s tor, said: “The Workers’ Cup to go one step further this time coast club last week dropped sults in the recent rounds and them in the first leg as well.” ners-up Doha Pest Control & matches, with the final being is now firmly established as around.” into the bottom three. 20 Thursday, December 6, 2018 The Last Word Qatar wins bid to host HIA concludes ‘Oryx Foxtrot’ emergency exercise at DIA Hl Conference in 2022 TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK DOHA Biennial meet set to draw hostel operators and travel enthusiasts from across the world HAMAD International Airport TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK (HIA) successfully completed DOHA its full-scale emergency ex- ercise ‘Oryx Foxtrot’ 2018 at HOSTELLING International Doha International Airport (HI), a federation of more (DIA), Doha’s old airport, on than 70 national youth hostel Wednesday. associations in more than 80 The exercise was conducted countries, has announced that in collaboration with over 25 the 54th HI conference will be government agencies, partners held in Qatar in 2022. and stakeholders, including the The announcement was Ministry of Interior, the Minis- made after Qatar won the vote try of Defence, the Ministry of by a wide majority at the HI Public Health, National Com- Conference held in Iceland re- mand Centre, Qatar Civil Avia- The simulation involved a international safety stand- cently. tion Authority, Qatar Aeronau- Gulf Helicopter Bell 412 aircraft ards, the successful execution The biennial conference, tical College, Gulf Helicopters mock colliding with an Aero- of this emergency exercise re- which will be held in October Company, Airport Customs, nautical College Piper PA28 inforces our high standards of 2022 in Doha, is expected to Airline Operators Committee while approaching the runway safety and security for our pas- draw more than 120 HI rep- and Qatar Airways Group. for landing, resulting in mock sengers and the airport com- resentatives, hostel operators Emergency Exercise ‘Oryx fatalities, casualties and debris munity at large. and travel enthusiasts from Foxtrot’ 2018 was arranged and across the impact area. “As a joint effort between around the world. executed by HIA in accordance The emergency exercise HIA, QR Group and our part- HI’s CEO Darren Barker with the requirements estab- saw participation from the Air- ners, we are proud to once expressed pleasure over Qa- Qatar won the vote for the hosting right by a wide majority at the HI Conference recently held in Iceland. lished by the International Civil port Fire and Rescue Service again demonstrate our safety tar’s offer to host the event, Aviation Organization (ICAO). team, Qatar Emiri Air Force and emergency preparedness saying, “I am really happy to hostels worldwide in Qatar’s offered by HI. Qatar is now a as Qatar Tourism Authority), The airport is responsible Fire Squadron, Civil Defence as well as our swift coordination be going to Qatar and absorb- ability to host an exceptional participant in HI-Connect, an and Qatar Museums. I would for ensuring that the Airport Firefighting Team and Hamad efforts among all those involved ing the culture this region has event.” He added, “We look employment scheme which like also to thank all HI mem- Management Systems and Medical Corporation (HMC), in the event of an emergency.” to offer. Very excited indeed, forward to embracing the allows youths to stay free at bers for their confidence in us.” Emergency Preparedness among others. ‘Oryx Foxtrot’ 2018 is well done to Qatar.” spirit of hospitality and explo- select HI locations around the In total, Qatar hosted 99 meet the exact requirements ‘Oryx Foxtrot’ 2018 was an a continuation of previous Qatar’s winning joint bid ration embodied by Hostelling world in exchange for work- exhibitions and 58 confer- of the Qatar Civil Aviation effective exercise in measuring emergency exercises imple- to host the conference dem- International and welcoming ing at HI hostels. Addition- ences in 2017 — a 30 percent Authority (QCAA) Aerodrome the coordination of the airport’s mented by the airport. Last onstrates the success of Qa- hospitality professionals from ally, QYH offers discounts on increase compared to 2015. Licensing Standards at both various internal and external year, HIA successfully organ- tar Youth Hostel (QYH) and all over the world at the HI nightly rates to HI members Qatar also recently won the HIA and DIA. agencies, companies and stake- ised two full scale emergency the National tourism Council conference.” through the organisation’s rights to host the All Together The objective of the emer- holders to ensure that the best exercises. The ‘Delta Oryx’ (NTC) in promoting Qatar as In the lead-up to the bid, digital membership. Better Health conference in gency exercise was to test the crisis management procedures 2017 which focused on testing a youth-friendly tourism des- QHY worked on building Ahmed Hassan al Obaidly, 2020 and both the AICR (The airport’s crisis readiness in ex- were executed effectively. the airport’s preparedness for tination. relations with a number of CEO of QYH, commented, “I International Association for treme situations, as the highly Commenting on the ex- handling an aircraft accident NTC official Ahmed al youth organisations such as would like to thank all those Deputy Managers and Front realistic simulation ensured ercise, HIA COO Eng Badr outside of airport premises, Obaidli commented, “Winning YHA Australia, FUAJ France, who supported our bid, par- Office Managers of Luxury that any crisis management Mohammed al Meer said, “In simulating a crash landing majority of votes to bring the DJH Germany, AIG Italy, HI ticularly the Ministry of Cul- Hotels) congress and Les deficiency at DIA and in Qatar accordance with international into the sea; as well as the 54th HI conference to Doha Korea, HI-USA and joined ture and Sport, National Tour- Clefs d’Or International Con- can be made apparent and ad- and national requirements of ‘Echo Oryx’ 2017 which tested shows the confidence of youth several exciting programmes ism Council (then referred to gress in 2021. dressed immediately. civil aviation, and in line with DIA’s crisis readiness.

McCafe hosts season’s FNAC displays array of first book swap event French books at DIBF FNAC, a leading cultural desti- workshops. nation in Qatar, together with Alexis Nesme, the author the French Embassy in Qatar and illustrator of the book ‘Les and the French Institute, are Enfants du Capitaine Grant’, participating in the 29th Doha also led workshops for school International Book Fair (DIBF) students. with a display of a large variety Over 10 days, FNAC booth of French books and a special is expected to attract more than section for Qatari authors. 1,000 students from different FNAC also organised a range schools in Doha. of activities such as workshops, During the book fair, re- book signings, meet and greets, nowned Qatari writers and art- story-telling sessions and other ists will be visiting the booth interactive activities. throughout the exhibition to The 29th Doha International present their work. FNAC is Book Fair is being held until De- supporting local talent through cember 8 at the Doha Exhibition cultural and educational activa- and Convention Center (DECC) tions and signing ceremonies. MCDONALD’S Qatar, in col- and share knowledge. On the occasion, Ghada under the theme ‘Doha, A City of All of the activities inspire laboration with city blogger Participants were encour- Kamal, marketing manager at Knowledge and Conscience’. and enlighten students on the One Shot Latte and Doha aged to bring along a mini- McDonald’s Qatar, said, “This This year, FNAC is set to importance of reading books, Bookworms, organised the sea- mum of 1 book with them, is the first of its kind event to be host notable authors espe- which helps further hone their son’s first Book Swap session at which they could exchange held at McDonald’s Qatar and cially invited by FNAC Inter- talents. McCafe, City Centre. for another one. This was the we are excited to witness a full national, France, including The Doha International Book enthusiasts from first Book Swap event Mc- house. We hope, this will mark Sibylline Desmazières and Jé- Book Fair is considered as the around Doha gathered at the Donald’s has hosted in Qatar, the first in a series of literary rôme D’Aviau, authors and il- largest international book fair in event, organised parallel to as part of its efforts to pro- events and continue our efforts lustrators of the book ‘Rat et the region with extensive partic- the 29th Doha International mote education and learning to promote reading in the com- les animauxmoches’ who inter- ipation from different countries Book Fair, to exchange books in the country. ing years.” (TNN) acted with students during their worldwide. (TNN)

SWEDISH EMBASSY CELEBRATES NATIONAL DAY WITH MIDWINTER LUCIA CEREMONY

The Embassy of Sweden in Doha on Tuesday hosted the Midwinter Lucia celebration to mark the National Day of Sweden. Min- ister of Transport and Communications HE Jassim bin Saif al Sulaiti, Minister of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs HE Yousef bin Mohammed al Othman Fakhro, Director of the Department of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs HE Ambassador Ibrahim Yousif Abdullah Fakhro and Ambassador of Sweden HE Ewa Polano jointly cut a cake on the occasion. More than 800 dignitaries and guests took part in the event held at St Regis Doha. (PHOTOGRAPHS BY JALAL PATHIYOOR)