Al-Shari': Partnership with Clubs Key to Handball Development

Ahmed Al-Shari, President of the Kuwait Handball Federation, emphasized that developing the sport requires cooperation and integration between the federation and clubs, stressing that the federation’s policy is based on partnership rather than guardianship, and that regulations are applied uniformly to all.

Regarding the senior national team’s preparations for the World Cup scheduled in Germany in January 2027, Al-Shari clarified that the tournament represents the top priority in the coming phase, as the Blue Team prepares for its tenth appearance in history and its second consecutive participation.

Al-Shari stated that “our World Cup group includes France, Argentina, and Brazil, making it one of the strongest groups in the tournament. However, we approach the challenge with realism and ambition, aiming to deliver an honorable performance and compete for a spot in the main round.”

He noted that preparations began in November under the leadership of Icelandic coach Aron Kristjansson and his Kuwaiti assistant Ali Murad. The program includes two external training camps in Egypt and Iceland to enhance technical and physical readiness, alongside efforts to build a strong foundation for youth national teams and identify talents early.

On the main challenges, Al-Shari identified five key areas: sports facilities, financial resources, player full-time commitment, scheduling of competitions, and development of youth categories. He explained that the federation is following up with the General Authority for Sports regarding the new headquarters site, working to strengthen partnerships with the private sector, coordinating on sports full-time commitment, and achieving balance between local competitions and national team preparation programs.