Ayo Victor
DOHA: The Qatar Basketball Federation (QBF) yesterday announced the new design for the prestigious 2025-2026 H H the Amir Basketball Cup, highlighting enhanced financial incentives and a renewed push to elevate the tournament’s stature.
The announcement was made during a press conference held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at the Federation’s conference hall. The event drew strong attendance from broadcast, print, and digital media outlets, reflecting growing national interest in basketball.
QBF Secretary-General Saadoun Sabah Al-Kuwari, led the proceedings and emphasised that the new edition represents a qualitative leap, particularly in prize money aimed at motivating clubs and intensifying competition.
Under the updated incentives, the champion will receive QR1.5 million, while the runner-up will be awarded QR900,000. These substantial prizes underscore the Federation’s commitment to strengthening the tournament’s value as one of the most prominent domestic competitions, especially given the increasingly competitive balance among participating teams.
“This initiative forms part of the Federation’s ongoing efforts to develop local competitions in both form and substance,” Al-Kuwari stated. The goal is to boost the appeal of the tournament and raise the overall level of play amid rising popularity of basketball across Qatar.
The HH the Amir Basketball Cup kicks off this evening, Wednesday, April 15, 2026, with a qualifying round clash between Qatar Club and Al-Khor Club at 6:05pm at the Federation Hall. The winner will advance to the quarterfinals, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting campaign.
Action continues on Saturday, April 18, at Al-Gharafa Hall with two compelling games: Al-Ahli versus Al-Wakrah at 6:05pm, followed by Al-Sadd against Al-Shamal at 8pm.
On Sunday, April 19, Al-Gharafa will face Al-Rayyan at 6:05pm, while Al-Arabi meets the winner of the Qatar Club versus Al-Khor encounter at 8pm.
The semifinals are scheduled for Monday, May 4, at Al-Gharafa Hall. The first semifinal at 6pm will pit the winner of Al-Ahli vs Al-Wakrah against the winner of Al-Arabi vs Qatar/Al-Khor. The second semifinal at 8pm will feature the victor of Al-Sadd vs Al-Shamal against the winner of Al-Gharafa vs Al-Rayyan. Both games are expected to deliver high-intensity basketball given the closely matched technical levels of the teams.
The tournament will reach its climax on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, with the grand final at 6:30pm, where the two semifinal winners will battle for the coveted HH the Amir Cup title.
The Federation expects the 2025-2026 edition to showcase improved standards and fierce competition, building on the growing momentum of basketball in the country. The enhanced prize structure is designed to encourage clubs to invest in player development, tactical preparation, and overall performance.
Basketball enthusiasts and fans are encouraged to follow the matches live, as the tournament promises thrilling encounters and a celebration of the sport’s rising profile in Qatar.
