Doha: Chairman of the Qatar Football Association's Competitions Committee, Hamad Al Mannai, confirmed that the committee considers all requirements related to the clubs to ensure a complete and competitive season. He also mentioned holding a coordinating meeting with all concerned parties to establish a balanced calendar for the new season, especially as the end of the current season approaches.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al Mannai emphasized that the calendar is set based on the requirements of both clubs and national teams, pointing out that this season's calendar is free from stoppages or postponed matches, unlike previous seasons.
Regarding the break between the 15th and 16th rounds of Qatar Stars League this season, Chairman of Competitions Committee explained that this break was planned from the beginning of the season as part of the competition schedule. He noted that the main goal of this break was to provide adequate preparation time for clubs participating in the AFC Champions League, especially during its final round, which often includes decisive matches. This break also coincided with the Round of 16 of the AFC Champions League, which is an important stage that included Al Wakra Club's participation.
Hamad Al Mannai clarified that the calendar for the next season will closely mirror the current season's schedule while considering the various national team commitments and club requirements, both locally and internationally. He stressed the committee's commitment to ensuring the competitiveness of local championships, especially the league, while also ensuring the readiness of referees for both local and international engagements.
Regarding the committee's decision if clubs request to postpone matches due to their international participation, Al Mannai confirmed that the committee takes the interests of the clubs into account, especially those representing Qatari football on the international stage. However, he emphasized that there is a focus on maintaining the stability of the calendar and avoiding repeated stoppages.
He stressed that the current season's calendar was stable and free from unscheduled breaks, considering this a positive development to build upon. The committee is keen on ensuring the league kicks off in August and ends by late April at the latest. He also mentioned that the committee had received several requests for match postponements, but these were rejected to maintain the strength and stability of the calendar.
Regarding the signing of foreign players allowed for clubs, Al Mannai explained that the number of foreign players is fixed for all clubs. However, based on requests from clubs participating in the AFC Champions League, an exception was made for them to sign additional professional players to strengthen their squads during the tournament. He emphasized that this exception was aimed at reinforcing certain positions that were lacking, in line with the competition's regulations allowing such signings. At the same time, he made it clear that these exempted players are not allowed to participate in local competitions to maintain fairness and ensure equal opportunities for all clubs.
In conclusion, Al Mannai confirmed that the promotion and relegation system between the top division and lower divisions remains unchanged, with no increase in the number of participating teams.