IKOLI VICTOR

DOHA THE Qatar Football Association and Shell Qatar signed an agreement on Monday making Shell a major sponsor of the 2012 Emir’s Cup, Qatar’s most prestigious and popular soccer tournament.

The agreement was signed by Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed al Thani, the president of the QFA and Wael Sawan, Vice CEO of Shell Qatar at the National Teams Committee Headquarters.

Shell Qatar has committed support to the Emir Cup for the sixth successive year as part of Shell’s broader contribution to the local community and to support the development of the game in Qatar.

“I am personally satisfied with the signing which reflects an actual will by Shell Qatar officials to support QFA activities, taking into consideration that football is the people’s first sport in the State of Qatar.

We are grateful for Shell’s continuing strong support for Qatar’s national game. I am sure that this support will help us make this year’s competition the best ever. I welcome all football fans to what promises to be a competition rich with exciting games”, said the QFA president.

He further said, “This partnership reflects the depth of the strong relationship between QFA and Shell Qatar which has spanned more than six years. I hope that in the near future they become the official sponsor of all our national teams. There is no doubt that the efforts shared by Shell Qatar is worthy of appreciation and praise for enhancing its community service role within the Qatari society,” he added.

Wael Sawan said, “We are excited with today’s announcement and proud to enter into this partnership with the Qatar Football Association. Football is the most popular sport in Qatar, and it is a clear example of the country’s bold stance on sports’ development, which has transformed Qatar into an international sports hub.” He stressed that Shell Qatar’s participation in sporting activities in Qatar is in conformity with Qatar National 2030 Vision. “Shell Qatar is delighted to contribute in achieving this aim through supporting football. I am looking forward to an excellent competition. Also, I am certain that the enthusiasm in this competition will have its impact on the Qatari youth to participate in the game.” In a similar vein, Khalid al Kuwari, head of marketing department of QFA, said, “We are delighted to welcome Shell’s partnership with the QFA. They are a widely respected company with a strong pedigree in the Qatari business sector. Their support is an enormous boost to our clubs and represents the enhanced reputation of Qatari football in the commercial scene. Like us, Shell Qatar recognises the extraordinary attachment that clubs have with people living in their local communities. This agreement will provide real benefit to those people.”