SANYA, China : Gianni Merlo, president of the International Sports Press Association, has praised the leadership of Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani in strengthening Asia’s position on the global sporting stage.
Speaking in Sanya during the Asian Beach Games, Merlo said the president of both the Olympic Council of Asia and the Qatar Olympic Committee had demonstrated a clear vision and an ability to unify the continent at a critical time.
“His leadership comes at a highly important moment that requires redefining the role of sport across Asia,” Merlo said, adding that current regional and global developments mean sport must extend beyond competition to play a broader unifying role.
Merlo said Sheikh Joaan’s tenure had begun under “exceptional circumstances” and required strategic thinking to strengthen cooperation among Asian nations and ensure long-term stability in sport.
He also highlighted Qatar’s rapid emergence as a global hub for major sporting events, crediting sustained investment in infrastructure, organisation and media capabilities.
“Qatar today does not merely host events, but contributes to advancing the global sports system,” he said.
On the prospect of Qatar hosting the Olympic Games, Merlo said the country meets key requirements, including modern facilities, transport networks and media infrastructure, adding that its track record in hosting major events strengthens its bid credentials.
He contrasted the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 with the expanded 2026 edition to be staged across multiple countries, noting that Qatar’s compact model offered a unique experience for fans and media.
Looking ahead, Merlo said the current period represented a turning point for Asian and global sport, with the OCA having a strong opportunity to enhance the continent’s influence worldwide.
He added that initiatives such as the AIPS Sport Media Awards, supported by Qatar, had grown into a key global platform reflecting the evolution of sports media.
