As Qatar prepares to host the historic FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027, the first ever to be held in the Middle East, its basketball federation is showing clear intent to ensure the country is not only a capable host but a true competitor on the court. The Qatar Basketball Federation (QBF) has been steadily building towards that vision, investing in talent, infrastructure and experience. The approach is focused, long-term and rooted in giving young players the chance to grow through exposure to top-level international action.
At the FIBA Asia Cup 2025 in Jeddah recently, Qatar’s senior team has faced a tough group featuring Lebanon, South Korea and reigning champions Australia. Under the guidance of Turkish head coach Hakan Demir, the squad is working to close the gap on stronger sides. The results may not have gone their way so far but the commitment is there. Players like Brandon Goodwin, Alen Hadzibegovic and Zain Eldin Badri have shown that the team has the talent to compete at the top level.
That’s exactly what QBF is providing. In parallel, the Qatar U-16 team is tested its mettle at the Arab Championship in Egypt. These players are the future. They’re learning what it means to play under pressure, to adjust tactics mid-game and to represent the country at a high level. Wins and losses matter but what matters more is growth and QBF is giving these young athletes the stage to develop.
The success story doesn’t end there. Qatar’s U-23 3x3 team recently booked its spot at the FIBA 3x3 U-23 World Cup in China, off the back of standout performances in the Nations League. That’s a major achievement and it reflects the country’s growing strength in this fast-rising format. It’s also another example of QBF’s commitment to variety and innovation in its basketball strategy.
Much of this progress stems from sound planning and an emphasis on long-term development. QBF, under the leadership of its president Mohammed bin Saad Al Mughaiseeb, sees these milestones as more than isolated successes. They are building blocks toward sustained excellence not just in traditional basketball but in all its growing formats including 3x3.
All this comes as Qatar prepares for its biggest basketball showcase yet – the FIBA World Cup 2027. The tournament will take place entirely within Doha, a compact and fan-friendly setup that builds on the country’s impressive track record of hosting global events including the FIFA World Cup in 2022. The branding, the preparation and the ambition behind the event all reflect a nation ready to deliver something special.
