Doha, Qatar – His Excellency Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani has been elected President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), a landmark achievement for Qatar and a signal of continued growth for Asian sports. The election, held during the OCA’s 46th General Assembly in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on December 27, 2023, positions Sheikh Joaan to lead the world’s largest regional Olympic organization. This appointment is expected to further elevate Qatar’s role in the international sporting community and drive development across the continent.
Sheikh Joaan’s election follows a period of significant sporting investment and success for Qatar, including hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022 and achieving its best-ever Olympic performance at the Tokyo 2020 Games. Numerous Qatari sports bodies have extended their congratulations, recognizing the election as a testament to the nation’s growing influence in global athletics.
Sheikh Joaan’s Election: A Boost for Asian Sports
The election of Sheikh Joaan to the OCA presidency is widely viewed as a recognition of his extensive experience and vision for the future of sport in Asia. He previously served as the First Vice President of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) and has been a driving force behind Qatar’s successful bid to host numerous international events. According to the QMMF, his leadership has established Doha as a prominent global sports hub.
Qatar’s Rising Sports Profile
Qatar has dramatically increased its investment in sports infrastructure and athlete development over the past two decades. This strategy, aligned with the Qatar National Vision 2030, has aimed to diversify the economy and enhance the country’s international reputation. The hosting of the Asian Games in Doha in 2006 was an early example of this ambition, and the 2022 FIFA World Cup represented the culmination of these efforts.
Abdulrahman bin Abdul Latif Al-Mannai, President of the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF), lauded Sheikh Joaan’s commitment to modern sports management and his ability to secure major championships for the region. Al-Mannai expressed confidence in Sheikh Joaan’s ability to guide Asian sports to “new heights.”
Jassim bin Rashid Al Buenain, President of the Qatar Football Association and QOC Secretary-General, echoed this sentiment, stating that Sheikh Joaan’s leadership stems from “extensive experience and an ambitious vision.” He shared his congratulations via social media platform X.
Impact on the Olympic Movement
Mohammed Ahmed Al Mudahka, President of the Qatar Chess Association, highlighted the significance of the appointment for the entire Asian continent. He believes that Sheikh Joaan’s leadership will usher in a period of substantial development and ambitious planning for sports across Asia. The OCA, representing 45 national Olympic committees, plays a crucial role in organizing regional games and supporting the Olympic movement within Asia.
Khalil Al Jaber, Executive Director of the Qatar Olympic Academy (QOA), emphasized Sheikh Joaan’s lasting impact on the Qatari Olympic Committee. He noted the significant progress made in both hosting major events and achieving notable athletic successes during Sheikh Joaan’s tenure as QOC President. Al Jaber anticipates a “qualitative leap” for the OCA under Sheikh Joaan’s guidance.
The election of Sheikh Joaan is particularly noteworthy given the increasing importance of Asia in the global sporting landscape. With a large and growing population, and rising economic power, Asian nations are becoming increasingly influential in international sports governance and competition. This trend, coupled with Sheikh Joaan’s leadership, is expected to further accelerate the development of sports throughout the region.
Looking ahead, Sheikh Joaan will focus on strengthening the OCA’s financial stability, expanding its programs for athlete development, and promoting the values of the Olympic Movement across Asia. The next major undertaking for the OCA will be the preparation for the 2026 Asian Games, scheduled to be held in Nagoya, Japan, and the continued planning for future regional and international sporting events. The success of these initiatives will depend on Sheikh Joaan’s ability to foster collaboration among the 45 member nations and navigate the evolving challenges facing the global sports community.
