Doha, October 21 (QNA) - Director of Qatar Football Association (QFA) Marketing and Communications Khaled Mubarak Al Kuwari emphasized that the Qatari national team's qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026, scheduled to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is a tremendous achievement, adding to the record of successes achieved by Qatari football.

He noted that the attendance at the team's matches in recent participations has been exceptional.

In statements during a media session held Tuesday at the QFA building, Al Kuwari said that QFA has actually begun developing a comprehensive vision for a marketing and media plan in preparation for team Qatar participation in the upcoming World Cup. There are new ideas and initiatives that will soon be announced in cooperation with the QFA's partners and sponsors.

He noted the existence of previous experiences in promotional campaigns and supporting the national team in a number of international tournaments, such as the Gold Cup and the Copa America, during the team's participation in those two tournaments years ago. These experiences will be leveraged, in addition to launching other initiatives.

He indicated that qualifying for the upcoming World Cup reflects the organized work undertaken by the QFA in cooperation with clubs and sports institutions, noting that the continuation of these successes is the result of long-term strategic planning that began years ago.

The Director of QFA Marketing and Communications expressed his pride in the achievements of the Qatari fans in the stands of Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium and their support for the Al Annabi Stand initiative, adding that the fans are aware and educated, and they know when to cheer and how to support. They are loyal fans, and QFA is proud of their wonderful support in the stands during the matches between the Omani and UAE teams.

Al Kuwari said that fan attendance during the third and fourth rounds of the AFC Asian Qualifiers 2026 surpassed 100,000 spectators, with an average of over 16,000 per match, reflecting great love for the national team and a strong sense of belonging.

The Director of QFA Marketing and Communications added that the Association has always paid special attention to fan engagement, launching many relevant initiatives, such as the QFA Back to School campaign, which have achieved great success with regard to national team matches and the Amir Cup, with special care given to supporting youth initiatives.

Al Kuwari praised local sport clubs, with whom coordination meetings were held ahead of the qualifiers, in addition to the consensus reached with regard to supporting the national team and energizing the fan base, which was done in conjunction with fan social media accounts and influencers.

Moreover, Al Annabi Stand initiative saw great efforts exerted to rally fans, whether in Souq Waqif or at stadiums, distributing tickets to national team fans, he added.

The Director of QFA Marketing and Communications called on local clubs to work closely with fan councils and to adopt their creative ideas and initiatives, as engaging with them enhances the overall fan scene in local competitions and positively impacts national team support in major tournaments.

Al Kuwari highlighted the full readiness for the kick-off of the upcoming FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 and FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025, noting that the new marketing campaigns will feature many innovative ideas, reflecting the identity of Al Annabi and the spirit of Qatari youth.

The Director of QFA Marketing and Communications affirmed that Al Annabi is going through a true phase of prosperity, thanks to a clear vision and strong collaboration among QFA, clubs, fans, and media.

He also expressed gratitude to all partners, sponsors, security personnel, and organizers who contributed to the success of the qualifiers. (QNA)