The fourth edition of the Workers Cup will kick off at Qatar Sports Club on March 18.
Organised by the Qatar Stars League (QSL) and sponsored by the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), the seven-week Workers Cup tournament aims to demonstrate the power of football by uniting Qatar’s football community and offering an opportunity for workers involved in building 2022 FIFA World Cup infrastructure a chance to take part in a high-profile event.
Twenty-four teams are competing in this year’s expanded tournament, which will conclude with a showpiece final on May 6 at Qatar Sports Club.
The draw for the tournament took place at Al Bidda Tower yesterday.
Ahmed al-Arami, QSL Executive Director of Competitions, said: “The Workers Cup is fast becoming a highlight of the Qatari sporting calendar and we’re delighted that this year’s tournament has been expanded from 16 to 24 teams.
“The energy and passion shown by the players over the last three years has been remarkable. They clearly love taking part and being involved in the football community.”
“Football is for everyone – it has the power to unite and inspire. This tournament forms an important part of our mandate to continually build Qatar’s football culture, and we are proud to host it. It’s essential we give something back to our community, especially to those who are playing a pivotal role in developing our country’s infrastructure.”
Seven teams involved in the tournament are SC contractors: G4S, Aamal, Al Asmakh Facilities Management, BOTC Qatar, Galfar Al Misnad Qatar, Midmac Contracting and Nakheel Landscapes.
Khalid al-Jumaily, SC Manager of Community Events, said: “The SC is committed to supporting the Workers Cup – a tournament which promotes unity and the power of football.”
“It’s important we support the people who are helping us deliver the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Many of the players involved in the Workers Cup are the ones building the stadiums and infrastructure which the whole world will see in 2022. We are committed to ensuring their health, safety, well-being and dignity, while encouraging their competitive spirit in the best possible way.”
Defending champions Midmac Contracting will be the team to beat this year after they defeated Outlook Trading on penalties in last year’s final at Gharafa Stadium.