The Qatar Winter Sports Committee (QWSC), in collaboration with Years of Culture, successfully launched the first public event of the Qatar Canada and Mexico 2026 Year of Culture Winter Sports Development Programme at Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Arena, welcoming families, athletes, and members of the wider community for an evening of sport, culture, and shared celebration.
The launch marked the start of a year-round programme aimed at growing winter sports participation in Qatar while creating opportunities for cultural exchange through sport.
As part of the Qatar Canada and Mexico 2026 Year of Culture, the initiative reflects how global partnerships can extend beyond traditional arts programming to include sport, education, and community engagement. It also highlights the role of sport in building understanding, friendships, and long-term connections between nations.
Attendees enjoyed a lively programme featuring curling experiences and a mini tournament, a short track speed skating showcase, open ice skating sessions, and an exhibition ice hockey match between local Qatari and Canadian amateur teams. The event offered an accessible and family-friendly introduction to multiple winter sports disciplines, drawing strong public participation throughout the evening.
Guests also enjoyed hospitality activations and refreshments from participating vendors, including BeaverTails and Tulum by Marriott Marquis City Center Doha Hotel, which joined the celebration.
His Excellency Karim Morcos, Ambassador of Canada to the State of Qatar, said during the event: “It is wonderful to see so many families and young people here today discovering winter sports and taking part with such enthusiasm. Winter sports are a proud part of Canada’s heritage, and it is meaningful to see that spirit welcomed here in Qatar through a programme that brings communities together and creates new opportunities for young people. Canada is proud to support this initiative through the Qatar Canada and Mexico 2026 Year of Culture.”
Hassan Hissam Al-Hebabi, General Secretary of Qatar Winter Sports Committee, said: “Our ambition is to build a sustainable winter sports pathway in Qatar that nurtures talent from the grassroots level through to high-performance competition. The year-round programme created for the Qatar Canada and Mexico 2026 Year of Culture is an important milestone in expanding access to winter sports and inspiring the next generation of athletes and families to engage with these disciplines.”
Running throughout 2026, the Winter Sports Development Programme will continue with a monthly calendar of events across Doha, promoting grassroots participation, youth development, coach education, and competitive opportunities in disciplines including ice hockey, curling, skating, and short track.
Further details on upcoming events will be announced through the Years of Culture website and official social media channels.
