DOHA : Qatar Athletics Federation president Mohammed Issa Al Fadala said Qatar’s success at the 4th GCC Games Doha 2026 was the result of careful planning, professionalism and coordinated work after the host nation topped the athletics standings with 34 medals.
Qatar finished the competition with 12 gold, 13 silver and nine bronze medals, edging rivals Bahrain on silver medals after both nations won 12 golds each.
“The goal was clear from the beginning: to win the largest number of medals while maintaining the athletes’ physical and mental readiness,” Al Fadala told Qatar News Agency.
He added that no members of the Qatari athletics team suffered muscle injuries during the Games, describing that as part of the federation’s success.
Al Fadala said the federation focused on collecting medals across events rather than targeting points totals, adding that the level of competition among participating Gulf nations had been high.
“The competition between Qatar and Bahrain for the gold medals reflected the intensity of the events,” he said, noting that all participating teams managed to secure medals in track and field disciplines.
He praised the organisation of the Games, saying early preparations and high standards had a positive impact on athletes’ performances and drew praise from participating delegations.
Al Fadala also credited clubs and sports federations in Qatar for their role in preparing athletes, describing the cooperation as key to the national team’s success.
He highlighted the achievements of Qatar’s female athletes, particularly Alaa Abdel Moneim and Salma Ahmed, who won medals in the women’s high jump in what he described as a first for the Qatari national team.
The federation chief said the Games had also provided valuable experience for emerging athletes, singling out Mubarak Saeed for winning gold in the 1,500 metres and Mohammed Jimmy for his success in the discus throw.
