Qatar: Opening of World Shooting Championship qualifying for the 2028 Olympic Games in Doha
The World Shooting Championship has begun in Doha with the participation of 1,100 athletes aiming to qualify for the 2028 Olympics.
Translated by Qiyas from كونا — Original source
Doha, November 3 (KUNA) — The World Shooting Championships, serving as a qualifier for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, opened this evening in Doha. The competition begins tomorrow, Tuesday, with approximately 1,100 shooters from 91 countries participating in a global gathering featuring elite world and Olympic champions.
At the opening ceremony, Dr. Meshal Al-Nasser, President of the Qatar Shooting Federation and Vice President of the Asian Shooting Confederation, said, “You are the owners of this event and the makers of its moments. You have come to Doha to write a new chapter in your careers. We welcome you to the Lusail Shooting Range Complex.” He added that the championship holds exceptional importance as the first qualifying stage for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, emphasizing the commitment to organizing the event to the highest technical and logistical standards at a world-class facility, staffed by passionate and professional personnel, to make the Doha 2026 championship an unforgettable memory for every shooter, coach, and fan.
For his part, Luciano Rossi, President of the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF), expressed his delight at Qatar hosting the World Shooting Championships in Doha, welcoming participants and sports delegations from around the world. He affirmed that what has been achieved on Qatari soil embodies a dream turned into reality, thanks to joint efforts, ambitious vision, and fruitful cooperation. He praised the significant efforts made by Qatari sports leaders and organizing committees to ensure the success of this global event, and commended the organizing committee’s role in providing the best conditions for hosting the championship.
Rossi noted that organizing an event of this scale cannot be achieved through individual efforts alone; it requires combined efforts and teamwork. He stressed that cooperation and belief in a shared vision are the true foundations for achieving sporting accomplishments. He explained that the ISSF continuously works to develop the sport of shooting and provide the best opportunities for athletes, in collaboration with national, continental, and international federations. He highlighted the importance of global competition in preparing for upcoming Olympic milestones and enhancing the presence of shooting on the international stage.
The opening ceremony, attended by Duaij Al-Otaibi, President of the Kuwaiti and Arab Shooting Federations, featured various segments, including a parade of participating nations, followed by a performance showcasing Qatari heritage. A promotional video for the championship and the participating shooters was also screened. The ceremony concluded with a traditional Ardah performance.
The World Shooting Championships are being held at the Lusail Shooting Range Complex, with strong participation from elite world and Olympic champions. Approximately 1,100 shooters from 92 countries worldwide are competing for 36 qualification spots for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, distributed across 12 individual Olympic events, with three spots allocated per event. This represents one of the largest qualification opportunities available during the upcoming Olympic cycle. (End) S S S
