The Qatar Football Association (QFA) has opened a new chapter in its administrative journey with the return of His Excellency Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani as President of the Association, marking the beginning of a critically important transitional phase that will continue through the end of the current Board of Directors’ term in 2027. The period carries a host of key issues and challenges that require well-considered decisions and a clear vision, particularly following Qatar’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which fell short of the high expectations of Qatari fans.

The QFA Executive Committee approved the appointment of His Excellency Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thanias President and Sheikh Tamim bin Mohammed Al Thani as Vice President to complete the current Board of Directors’ term through 2027. The decision will be submitted for ratification at the General Assembly meeting scheduled for next September, following the resignation of His Excellency Mr. Jassim bin Rashid Al Buenain as President and Mr. Mohammed bin KhalifaAl Suwaidi as Vice President.

The return of His Excellency Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani to the presidency is not merely an administrative change to fill a vacant position. It comes at a sensitive time for Qatari football, which is undergoing a period of review and reassessment following its exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the group stage and ahead of two major competitions: the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup “Khaleeji 27”, scheduled for September and October, followed by the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Sheikh Hamad’s return also marks the comeback of one of the longest-serving football administrators in Qatar’s history, having led the Association for 18 consecutive years from 2005 to 2023, before Jassim bin Rashid Al Buenain was elected President for the current term, which runs through 2027.

His previous tenure witnessed significant transformations in Qatar’s football landscape, along with major achievements at the national team, competition, and international hosting levels. These included the national team’s first-ever AFC Asian Cup title in 2019 and qualification for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, in addition to establishing a professional organizational framework that strengthened the standing of Qatari football both continentally and internationally. At its General Assembly in June 2023, the Association elected Jassim Al Buenain as President to succeed His Excellency Sheikh Hamad and awarded Sheikh Hamad the title of Honorary President in recognition of his contributions since assuming office in 2005. He now returns to the presidency to complete the remainder of the current term.

His Excellency Sheikh Hamad’s membership on the “FIFA”Council for the 2023–2027 term, together with his extensive continental and international experience and relationships, also provides the Qatar Football Association with significant administrative strength during the upcoming phase, which requires shaping a new vision for the future of the national teams, domestic competitions, and talent development programs.