Qatar launches inaugural Basketball Mini World Cup ahead of FIBA 2027
DOHA: The Organizing Committee of the FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027, in partnership with the Qatar School Sports Association (QSSA), announced on Sunday the launch of the first-ever Basketball Mini World Cup, a pioneering initiative set to take place in Doha across two seasons — 2025–2026 and 2026–2027.
Unveiled during a press conference at the Qatar Olympic Committee’s Al Wajbah Hall, the event was attended by HE Sheikh Khalifa bin Khalid Al-Thani, Director of QOC’s Sports Sector and President of QSSA, and Mohammed Saad Almeghaiseeb, Director General of the Organizing Committee and President of the Qatar Basketball Federation.
Organized under the supervision of FIBA and as part of the School Olympic Program, the tournament will replicate the competitive format of the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup Qatar 2027, offering a unique, school-level simulation of one of the world’s premier sporting events.
The first season will feature 32 secondary school teams from across Qatar competing under their school banners from November 4, 2025, to April 2026. In the following season, the teams will represent simulated national squads in alignment with the 2026–2027 Olympic Program.
Beyond competition, the Mini World Cup aims to combine education and sport, fostering teamwork, community values, and appreciation for basketball’s global heritage. Interactive activities will also allow students to experience various aspects of hosting a major international tournament.
Mohammed Saad Almeghaiseeb hailed the project as “a pioneering step” that connects Qatar’s youth with one of the world’s greatest sporting events, emphasizing the tournament’s role in nurturing skills and promoting excellence. Sheikh Khalifa bin Khalid Al-Thani highlighted its legacy-focused vision, aiming to boost youth participation, sports development, and national pride.
The Basketball Mini World Cup represents another milestone in Qatar’s ongoing efforts to promote school sports, strengthen community engagement, and prepare the next generation to carry forward the country’s sporting legacy on the global stage.
