Latest news with #FIFAWorldCup2022
India.com
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- India.com
Meet man who rejected the offer to marry a princess due to his girlfriend, his name is...., princess is from....
She's a real-life princess who is beautiful, royal, and the future queen of Spain. But her love story reportedly took an unexpected turn. Crown Princess Leonor of Spain, known for her grace and elegance, is said to have developed feelings for a young football star. That player? FC Barcelona's rising talent, Pablo Gavi. What makes this story even more surprising is that Gavi allegedly turned down the princess's affection. While many would dream of winning the heart of a royal, he reportedly chose to stay committed to his girlfriend instead even though he could have had a future as the king's son-in-law. Who is Princess Leonor? Princess Leonor is the eldest daughter of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain. She was born on October 31, 2005, and is the heir to the Spanish throne. The princess is admired around the words for her royal upbringing, intelligence, and striking beauty. People also say that her charm rivals that of top stars from the movies. Despite her fame, Leonor is known to be private and keeps her personal life away from the spotlight, which is why very little is known about her relationships. Who is Pablo Gavi? Pablo Gavi's full name is Pablo Martín Páez Gavira. He is one of Spain's brightest young football stars and plays as a central midfielder for La Liga club FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team. Gavi won the prestigious Golden Boy Award and Kopa Trophy in 2022, both given to the best young footballer in the world. Born on August 5, 2004, he is about a year older than Princess Leonor. How Princess Leonor reportedly fell for Gavi The rumors of a royal crush began during the FIFA World Cup 2022, when Spain defeated Costa Rica in a spectacular 7–0 win. After that match, it was reported that King Felipe VI had requested an autographed jersey from Gavi and this was not for himself, but for his daughter, Princess Leonor. This sparked talk that the young royal might have taken a special interest in the footballer. Whispers of a possible connection between the two gained more attention when Spain won the Euro Cup 2024 and the national team was invited to the royal palace to celebrate the victory. During this event, Princess Leonor and Gavi were seen shaking hands and briefly interacting with each other, photos from that moment quickly went viral. Turned down a future throne for love According to media reports, Pablo Gavi rejected Princess Leonor's affection because he is already in love with someone else. The football star is said to be in a relationship with a young woman named Ana Pelayo. She is 22 years old, currently a student, and quite popular on social media and has over 325,000 followers on Instagram.
The Hindu
09-05-2025
- Sport
- The Hindu
AFC Asian Cup qualifiers — Former Australia manager Graham Arnold set to become Iraq coach
Former Australia boss Graham Arnold will be presented as the new Iraq coach this weekend ahead of next month's crunch World Cup qualifiers against South Korea and Jordan, a senior member of the Iraqi Football Association said on Thursday. Ahmed Al-Mousawi, the IFA official responsible for negotiating the contract of the previous coach Jesus Casas, told the Iraqi News Agency that the deal was almost done. 'Graham's contract details are almost finalised and will be announced officially upon his arrival,' he said. 'Arnold will bring with him a fully integrated technical staff of seven coaches, including an internationally renowned assistant who has previously worked with an English Premier League club.' Arnold led the Socceroos to the round of 16 of FIFA World Cup 2022, where they lost a close game to eventual champion Argentina, but quit last September after a poor start to the third round of qualifiers for the 2026 finals. 𝐀𝐅𝐂 𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 (𝐌𝐞𝐧) 𝐍𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐬 🇦🇺 Graham Arnold 🇯🇵 Go Oiwa 🇰🇷 Hwang Sun-hong The men who pulled the strings for Asia's best sides from the touchline with their tactical and game-management prowess! # — AFC (@theafcdotcom) October 15, 2024 The 61-year-old replaces Spaniard Casas, who was sacked just over halfway through his four-year contract in March after a 2-1 loss to Palestine in Jordan. The defeat left Iraq third in Asian Group B, a point adrift of a top-two spot and the automatic ticket to the finals in North America that goes with it. Iraq host group leaders South Korea in Basra on June 5 and second-placed Jordan in Amman five days later. Third and fourth place in the group offer a path to the finals through a fourth stage of Asian qualifying. 'The coach will meet with the players very shortly, as he will give the Iraqi Federation the full opportunity to set up a training camp in Basra Governorate, in preparation for the match against the South Korean national team, followed by another match against the Jordanian national team,' Al-Mousawi added. The Iraqis have appeared at only one edition of the World Cup finals in Mexico in 1986, when they lost all three games to go out in the group stage.
Qatar Tribune
04-05-2025
- Politics
- Qatar Tribune
Rooted in Qatar, ready for the world: GU-Q graduates lead with culture, voice, and vision
Tribune News Network Doha As Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) celebrates the Class of 2025, four local graduates—Waad Al-Maadeed, Ghanim Al-Kubaisi, Jood Ikram Sheikh, and John Carlos Burog—stand out for their exceptional leadership, cultural advocacy, and dedication to community-building. Shaped by their experiences growing up in Qatar and empowered by their education at GU-Q, these students are leaving a legacy defined by service, voice and vision. Waad Al-Maadeed: Championing culture and empowering women As a Qatari, Waad Al-Maadeed was shaped by a society that 'values hospitality, tradition, and community while also embracing innovation and global engagement.' She credits this dynamic environment for inspiring her academic and leadership journey, which included serving as president of both the Al Liwan Qatari Club at GU-Q and the Qatari Association of Qatar Foundation, where she organized major events, built local partnerships, and expanded student engagement across Education City. Graduating with honours in International Politics with a minor in Arabic, Waad chose GU-Q because 'I wanted to immerse myself in different cultures and ideas while staying connected to home.' Hands-on internships with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, United Nations Doha Hub, and Qatar Investment Authority, among others, furthered her understanding of how to advance her nation. A sports enthusiast, Waad's honours thesis explored Qatar-Saudi bilateral relations around the Qatar FIFA World Cup 2022, and she founded GU-Q's first fencing club which grew to 83 members. 'I introduced Qatar's first and only women-only fencing training sessions offering a comfortable environment for women to participate,' she shares. Waad's leadership extended beyond Qatar, as she represented the country at the Innoclimat Conference in Switzerland, presenting on national sustainability innovations as part of an official delegation. For Georgetown's Model United Nations, she served as chair for both the English and Arabic iterations, coordinating the committees and welcoming more than 1,000 participants. She also led her peers on a Women as Changemakers trip to Washington, DC, connecting with influential female policymakers. Ghanim Al-Kubaisi: Telling stories that matter With a major in International Politics, a minor in History, and a Certificate in Media and Politics, Ghanim Al-Kubaisi has used storytelling as a powerful vehicle for certificate research project explored Saudi Arabia's media makeover under Vision 2030. On campus, Ghanim led the Georgetown Leadership Ambassador society, enhancing outreach strategies and student engagement through hosting VIP guests on campus, such as former Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaitė, and organizing a community festival to celebrate connections and share cultural knowledge about the Suhail season. Beyond campus he served as an Education Above All (EAA) Youth Advocate, connecting with peers around the world and advancing educational equity. 'It was a transformative experience,' he explained, adding: 'it made me into a more active and reflective learner, and I was honoured to help others by leading workshops on intersectionality for students from across Qatar and around the world.' Recognized for his poise and insight, Ghanim moderated panel discussions featuring diplomats, scholars, and thought leaders at GU-Q and Qatar Foundation events. Jood Sheikh: Compassionate leader For International Economics major Jood Ikram Sheikh, who graduated from Qatar Academy, curiosity, courage, and compassion shaped every step of her Georgetown journey. Her leadership shone across campus, serving as a senior class representative, and on the Academic Council, and Student Liaison Committee, where she advocated for evaluation improvements and senior resources. Jood also played an active role in advancing academic excellence across the GU-Q community. She welcomed new students through the Admissions Ambassador program, Hoya Welcome Week, and the First Year Experience program, and mentored high school students through Model United Nations events and the Georgetown Pre-College Summer Program. She also served as a peer tutor and teaching assistant in economics and math, and supported service worker professional development through the HELP program. 'I discovered that I enjoy helping students develop at all stages of their educational journey,' she shared. Drawing from her experience of leadership on campus, and academic focus on the region–for her Certificate in Media and Politics, she drew on her local knowledge to study cyberfeminism and digital activism in the Gulf–she is preparing for a life of service. John Carlos Burog: Making community legible For Culture and Politics major John Carlos Burog, education at GU-Q was a journey of self-definition and cultural affirmation. Born in the Philippines and raised in Qatar, he co-founded Katipunan, the Society of Filipino Students. 'There are approximately 270,000 Filipinos in Qatar, and I feel it is my responsibility to raise awareness of their importance to the region,' he explained. Graduating magna cum laude, John also received a minor in French and a Certificate in American Studies. A semester abroad in Washington, DC inspired him to study the Filipino diaspora more broadly: his certificate portfolio compares experiences of Filipinos/x in America to his own experience 'growing up Filipino in a foreign country,' while his honours thesis explored digital activism among the diaspora. From representing the university during new student Welcome Week, and as a GU-Q choir member, to winning awards for his participation on the debate team, and hosting the Model United Nations, John wove his academic work and co-curricular life into a larger narrative of inclusivity and agency—ensuring that his community's stories are not only told, but understood.
Zawya
14-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Sports tourism a vital growth driver for Qatar: PwC
Qatar - Sports tourism remains a vital growth driver with FIFA World Cup 2022 generating an estimated $2.3-4.1bn in tourism spending and broadcasting revenue, contributing $1.6-2.4bn to Qatar's gross domestic product (GDP), according to PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). 'This success has created a positive impact boosting the tourism and hospitality sectors across the region by up to 30%,' PwC said, adding the Middle East region's sports market is projected to grow at an 'impressive' rate of 8.7% over the next three to five years, outpacing the global average of 7.3%. This growth (in the Middle East sports sector) will be fuelled by significant investments in premium sports properties and infrastructure, alongside ambitious initiatives to increase grassroots participation, it said, adding 'looking ahead, the region's sports sector faces both opportunities and challenges as it balances commercial growth with sustainable development.' Qatar continues to leverage its post-World Cup momentum through strategically bidding for, and hosting, major sporting events such as the FIFA Arab Cup in 2025, 2029 and 2033; FIFA U17 World Cup in 2025 through 2029 and the Web Summit for 2024 through 2028, PwC said. Highlighting that Qatar's successful hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup and Saudi Arabia's selection for the 2034 edition demonstrates the region's capability; the report said the region's position in global sports investment has strengthened significantly. Sovereign wealth funds, including Middle Eastern funds, now lead 24% of global sports investments, it said, adding Qatar Sports Investments' $200mn investment in Monumental Sports, which owns clubs and arenas in the US, reflects a growing focus on international portfolio. Finding that the region is pioneering new commercial models, notably in emerging sports sectors; it said Qatar's investments in Formula 1, the UAE's development of combat sports, and Saudi Arabia's Esports initiatives demonstrate the breadth of commercial opportunities being pursued. The Middle Eastern sports consumer is highly digitally engaged, with over-the-top (OTT) services like Shahid VIP and beIN Connect revolutionising how fans consume sports content. Innovations from entities like the Qatar-based SponixTech (immersive replays) and Saudi Arabia-based Fanera (fan experience platforms) underscore the region's leadership in digital sports transformation. Social media is a key driver of fan engagement, with platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X playing a central role; PwC said penetration rates in the Middle East highlight the widespread use of social platforms, with the UAE at 115%, Saudi Arabia at 96.2% and Qatar at 96.8%. © Gulf Times Newspaper 2022 Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( Santhosh V. Perumal
Gulf Business
09-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Insights: Is Qatar retail at a crossroads?
Image: Supplied There is no doubt that the FIFA World Cup 2022 was a catalyst for Qatar's rapid rise as a major player in the Gulf's retail and leisure landscape. The event ignited a wave of development, showcased Qatar's potential to a global audience, and left behind a lasting legacy of world-class hotels, entertainment destinations, fine dining, and modern infrastructure. Yet, the question remains: what's next for Qatar's retail and leisure sectors? Can they sustain the momentum generated by landmark events like the World Cup and ongoing initiatives to boost tourism and economic diversification? Strategic government support has been instrumental in driving Qatar's retail and tourism expansion. The Qatar Tourism Authority has played a key role in boosting visitor numbers, which reached a record 5 million in 2024 — a 25 per cent increase over the previous year. Initiatives like Shop Qatar have further stimulated activity by promoting the country's shopping experiences through festivals, exclusive discounts, and tourism-driven events. Highly competitive retail sector Despite Qatar's strong market positioning, the path to sustained growth presents challenges. The Gulf's retail sector is highly competitive, with Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia often targeting the same affluent consumer base. This has driven Qatar's strategy of seamlessly integrating retail with its broader visitor experience, offering a unique mix of luxury, culture, and hospitality. Qatar's ability to attract global luxury brands has strengthened its appeal among high-net-worth visitors. Iconic hospitality names such as Raffles, Banyan Tree, Mandarin Oriental, Le Royal Meridien, W, Ritz-Carlton, and St. Regis enhance the luxury experience, while renowned fine dining establishments — including Zuma, Cipriani, Gaia, Hakkasan, and Nobu — continue to elevate Qatar's culinary scene. The launch of the Michelin Guide Doha and the anticipated opening of Park Chinois further reinforce Qatar's status as a luxury travel and culinary destination. Qatar's local brands gaining ground Beyond the high-end sector, local brands and homegrown concepts are gaining traction. A rising consumer preference for authenticity and cultural heritage has fueled demand for Qatari designers, artisans, and boutique retail experiences. This evolving mix of luxury and local is shaping a diverse and vibrant retail environment. With a growing population, a well-connected award winning international airport, and an expanding hospitality sector, Qatar is well-positioned to sustain its retail and leisure momentum. By continuing to blend experiential retail, world-class events, and strategic government backing, Qatar is poised to carve out a distinctive identity in the Gulf's dynamic retail landscape. The writer is CEO at United Developers Qatar, the company that owns Read:
