Seattle, June 25 (QNA) - Secretary General of the Qatar Football Association (QFA) Mansoor Al Ansari said Qatar's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, currently being held in the United States, Mexico and Canada, carried many positive aspects despite failing to reach the Round of 32, stressing that focus will now shift to upcoming competitions, led by the Gulf Cup, AFC Asian Cup and preparations for the 2030 World Cup qualifiers.

In an interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA) following Qatar's exit from the tournament, Al Ansari stressed that the team's performance should be assessed within the broader progress of Qatari football in recent years.

He said the current participation marked a new stage in the national team's journey, and he believes the performance was respectable, adding that they opened with a draw against Switzerland, who were favorites to top the group, then faced Canada under very difficult circumstances, especially as they were playing at home and in front of their fans, before losing the third match against Bosnia and Herzegovina despite the good level shown by their players.

Al Ansari underscored that the QFA will now close the World Cup chapter and focus on preparing the national team for upcoming competitions through a comprehensive plan extending to the 2030 World Cup qualifying campaign.

He praised the strong support of Qatari fans throughout the tournament, noting that the initiative to transport supporters to the United States and Canada was among the key gains of the participation, as it showcased Qatar's culture and identity to the world.

He added that the positive interaction with other fan bases projected an exemplary image of Qatari society and helped strengthen cultural ties between peoples, stressing that Qatari supporters once again proved their unwavering backing of the national team regardless of results.

On logistical arrangements, Al Ansari explained that extensive coordination was required to facilitate the movement of fans and media representatives across host cities and countries.

He said it was a complex logistical operation, particularly with travel between multiple cities and countries, from the United States to Canada and back again. However, he added, the spirit of teamwork and national responsibility among all working teams and supporters contributed greatly to its success.

Regarding the legacy of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and its impact on the 2026 edition, Al Ansari said Qatar's organizational success continues to positively influence global tournaments, highlighting the continued reliance on Qatari expertise in major sporting events.

He noted that the involvement of Qatari professionals in organizing the 2026 FIFA World Cup under a cooperation agreement with FIFA reflects international confidence in Qatar's accumulated expertise.

Al Ansari concluded by affirming that the QFA will continue efforts to enhance Qatari fan presence at international tournaments, describing sport as an important platform for showcasing Qatari culture and promoting the values of openness and human connection that form part of the legacy of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. (QNA)