ShareKUWAIT: The Gulf Cup’s 26th edition, Khaleeji Zain 26, is just three days away from concluding, marking one of the most competitive and well-organized tournaments since its inception 54 years ago in Bahrain. The event witnessed exceptional attendance and widespread media coverage, from the group stage matches to the semifinals.
Over 12 days, tens of thousands of fans from participating nations flocked to Kuwait, experiencing an extraordinary sporting atmosphere in the “Land of Friendship and Peace”. The tournament, which began on December 21, has received praise from sports and media figures, former stars, technical and administrative teams, and passionate fans of Gulf football.
Visitors were welcomed warmly and experienced seamless organization, enjoying a “carnival-like” vibe both inside and outside the stadiums. Despite the fierce competition and enthusiastic crowds, the spirit of camaraderie remained the dominant feature throughout the event.
Khalifa bin Ali: The Gulf Cup unites
Sheikh Khalifa bin Ali Al-Khalifa, Vice President of the Bahrain Football Association, expressed his happiness with the fraternal atmosphere surrounding Khaleeji Zain 26. He emphasized that the tournament strengthens bonds of brotherhood among Gulf nations.
Speaking at a luncheon hosted by Sheikh Ahmad Al-Yousef, Chairman of the Kuwait Football Association and Vice President of the tournament’s organizing committee, Sheikh Khalifa said, “The Gulf Cup always unites what was divided, and that is the true victory of holding such tournaments regularly.”
He thanked Sheikh Ahmad for the opportunity to meet with Gulf delegation leaders, athletes, and media personalities in a non-competitive setting. Sheikh Khalifa also commended Kuwait’s ability to organize “one of the best tournaments, as we have come to expect from them in hosting major sporting events.” He added, “Even before the tournament started, we were confident it would be an exceptional event because it was hosted by Kuwait, known for its expertise in organizing large-scale events. This is precisely what we witnessed from the very first day.”
He also noted that the tournament’s technical level matched its organizational excellence. “We saw competitive matches and steady performance improvement from all teams, confirming the Gulf Cup’s pivotal role in the development of football in the region. It also serves as an ideal platform for young talents to emerge and make their mark.”
Fahad Al-Nasser: Gulf unity is the biggest prize
Sheikh Fahad Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, President of the Kuwait Olympic Committee, highlighted that the Gulf unity fostered by Khaleeji Zain 26 is the tournament’s greatest achievement. Attending a luncheon hosted by Sheikh Ahmad Al-Yousef at the “Salmiya Diwan” in honor of the participating delegations, Sheikh Fahad said, “What sets the Gulf Cup apart are the activities accompanying the sports competitions. We are delighted to host this Gulf gathering in the ‘Land of Friendship and Peace.’”
Al-Houti: Today’s generation needs more support
Saad Al-Houti, a former Kuwaiti football star and captain of the national team during the 1982 Spain World Cup, stressed that Kuwait’s current national team requires more support. He said, “Football today is entirely different from what it was in the past, on all levels. I believe that more support will push our national team players to achieve better results and higher technical levels, making Kuwait’s team a more active contender in future competitions.” He noted that all the teams participating in Khaleeji Zain 26 aspired to win the title, fielding their top squads and showcasing their best performances in the group stage.
Enad: Our joy is doubled
Saad Enad, Chairman of the Al-Sulaibikhat Club, expressed his double joy — first for the Gulf Cup’s success and second for the inauguration of Jaber Al-Mubarak Stadium at Al-Sulaibikhat Club, which received widespread acclaim. Enad pointed out that the stadium revitalized the Sulaibikhat area, drawing Gulf fans to the region. He described the timing of the stadium’s opening alongside Khaleeji Zain 26 as perfect, adding another world-class sports facility to Kuwait’s already impressive infrastructure.
Al-Joukar: Kuwait leads in all fields
Emirati media personality Mohammed Al-Joukar praised the “perfect” atmosphere of the Gulf Cup in Kuwait, highlighting the country’s leadership in cultural, media, and sports fields. He noted that “Khaleeji Zain 26” stood out for its high level of professionalism, from the opening ceremony to the competitions and accompanying activities, and finally the comprehensive media coverage. “All of this reinforces Kuwait’s pioneering role and its ability to organize events in the best and most beautiful way,” he said.
Suleiman: Khaleeji Zain 26 among the best
Former Kuwaiti national team star Wael Suleiman emphasized that Khaleeji Zain 26 ranks as one of the best Gulf Cups in history at all levels. He attributed the tournament’s success to Kuwait’s global-standard administrative and technical expertise, which enabled the smooth organization of a significant sports event. He also praised the enthusiastic fan turnout, saying, “We witnessed massive crowds not only for Kuwait’s matches but for all Gulf matches, showcasing the fans’ passion and love for football and their eagerness to enjoy the tournament’s atmosphere.”
Bunyan: A successful tournament by all standards
Former Kuwaiti national team and Qadsia Club star Mohammed Bunyan described “Khaleeji Zain 26” as outstanding on technical, media, and fan levels. He expressed joy over the intense competition among participating teams, who were all keen to showcase their best and advance in the tournament. “The Gulf Cup has returned with full force in this exceptional edition,” Bunyan said, adding that the high attendance further heightened the excitement, making the matches thrilling for players and fans alike.
Al-Khudari: Exceptional sporting atmosphere
Hussain Al-Khudari, a former player for Salmiya Club and Kuwait’s national team, said the entire country is enjoying an extraordinary atmosphere thanks to Khaleeji Zain 26. “Everyone is relishing these moments, wishing they could last longer, but such exceptional events are naturally limited in time,” he said. Al-Khudari also lauded the organizing committee for its attention to detail and prompt resolution of any issues, ensuring the event’s success both on and off the field.
Al-Salamah: Packed stadiums reflect success
Former Kuwaiti national team and Qadsia Club star Khalaf Al-Salamah highlighted the Gulf Cup’s massive success, as reflected in the fans’ eagerness to secure tickets for the matches. “Football is about the fans; they are always the primary indicator of a team or tournament’s success. We witnessed large Gulf crowds attending all the matches, proving that Khaleeji Zain 26 succeeded on both technical and organizational levels,” he said.
