As the national carrier of the State of Qatar, Qatar Airways has brought the match to Doha, the GCC’s ‘home of international football’.
The football giants, both sponsored by Qatar Airways, will play a friendly match in Al Gharafa Stadium on Tuesday, 13 December, 2016.
During a pre-match press conference, hosted by Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker and Vice President of the Organising Committee, His Excellency Mr. Hassan Al Thawadi, the design of the Qatar Airways Cup trophy was revealed for the first time.
Created by a team from Qatar Airways, taking inspiration from the modern aircraft they fly, the cup was handmade in Doha and cast in 18 carat gold. It is designed to reflect the global unity that sport inspires, and signifies the reward for teamwork, effort and determination.
Speaking at the press conference, His Excellency Mr. Al Baker said: “Qatar Airways believes in sport as a source of inspiration and a symbol of international unity, as teams and their supporters come together from around the world to celebrate the determination and spirit that is required to win.
Stunning #QatarAirwaysCup revealed during pre-match press conference pic.twitter.com/OrZ9SEDPYu
— Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) December 12, 2016
“We are exceptionally proud to not only support two iconic teams through our sponsorship of FC Barcelona and Al-Ahli Saudi FC, but to bring these two beloved teams together for what we are sure will be a phenomenal match – a Match of Champions, no less – with the worthy winner able to lay claim to the Qatar Airways Cup.
“Fans from around the world have chosen to fly in to Doha with Qatar Airways to watch this iconic match. As the State of Qatar’s national carrier, it gives us a great sense of pride to give these international travellers their first taste of our infamous Qatari hospitality before they touch down in the country for this exciting event. This match would not have been possible without the expertise and dedication of the Qatar Football Association and we thank them warmly for their generous assistance.”
His Excellency Mr. Hassan Al Thawadi said: “The enormity of this match is a testament to Qatar’s growing standing as the home of international football in the GCC, where the world’s greatest players are converging to bring world-class competitions to the region. It is also a significant marker in our journey towards 2022 when we will proudly host the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Tickets for the match sold out within hours as each batch was released with purchases made from around the world, with a full capacity stadium of 18,000 people set to attend the match.
The big reveal! How good does the #QatarAirwaysCup look? Either @FCBarcelona or @ALAHLI_FC will be lifting this on Tuesday evening. pic.twitter.com/bxZuOotrg8
— Qatar Football 🇶🇦 (@QFA_EN) December 12, 2016
