Qatar clinch second title at 2025 International Camel Handball Championship
Al Shahaniya, Qatar: Hosts Qatar emerged victorious at the fourth edition of the International Camel Handball Championship 2025, defeating Iraq 15-12 in a thrilling final held at Lebsayer Heritage Field here on Sunday.
In a match filled with intensity and high-level skill, the Qatari side, led by standout players Ali Al Dosari, Sultan Al Kuwari, and Omar Al Shahwani, edged past a formidable Iraqi lineup featuring Ali Jameel Kazim, Hussein Ali Hamad, and Oraibi Manea.
With the win, Qatar claimed their second camel handball title and took home the $10,000 top prize, along with a newly designed, gold-plated trophy. Iraq, the runners-up, earned $9,000 for their impressive campaign. Morocco secured third place and a $6,000 prize, while Somalia rounded off the top four.
The closing ceremony was attended by key officials including Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Sheikh Al Kuwari, President of the Arab Union for Camel Racing (AUCR) and Vice Chairman of the Camel Racing Organizing Committee.
Joining him for the prize distribution were Hussein Mustafa Fathi, Chairman of the Ethics Committee of the International Handball Federation, and Ahmed Mohammed Al Shaabi, President of the Qatar Handball Federation.
Individual accolades were also presented, recognizing standout performances across the tournament. John Arthur Elliott of Australia was named Best Player, Iraq’s Oraibi Fatlawi earned Best Goalkeeper, Yahya Taku of Somalia clinched the Top Scorer title, and Bulgaria received the Fair Play Award.
AUCR Secretary-General Dr. Hazam Al Maqarih and Qatar Handball Association Secretary-General Mohammed Jaber Al Mulla handed out the individual honors.
Reflecting on the tournament’s success, AUCR President Al Kuwari praised the level of competition and growing international interest in the sport.
“This year’s edition was truly exceptional, showcasing outstanding technical ability from all participating teams,” he said. “The global reach of camel handball continues to expand, and we look forward to welcoming even more nations in the next edition.”
The 2025 championship witnessed widespread participation from across continents, reinforcing its growing reputation as a unique and globally celebrated sporting event.
