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Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club accredited as world’s first hybrid show jumping arena

The Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club has been accredited as the world’s first hybrid showjumping arena
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The Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club has been accredited as the world’s first hybrid showjumping arena
The Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club has been accredited as the world’s first hybrid showjumping arena
2 / 2
The Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club has been accredited as the world’s first hybrid showjumping arena
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Updated 16 sec ago

Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club accredited as world’s first hybrid show jumping arena

Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club accredited as world’s first hybrid show jumping arena
  • Designation allows club to organize and host both indoor and outdoor showjumping events

ABU DHABI: The Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club has been accredited as the world’s first hybrid showjumping arena by the International Equestrian Federation, allowing it to host indoor and outdoor events.

Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, vice president of the UAE, deputy prime minister, minister of the presidential court, and chairman of the ADEC has been instrumental in the advancement of equestrian sport, the organization said in a statement recently.

In addition, the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation has played a key role by organizing and promoting international championships.

Ali Al-Shaiba, director-general of the ADEC, said: “This is a proud moment; this recognition marks a historic milestone for equestrian sport in the UAE.

“It is a reflection of our leadership’s vision and a testament to the nation’s commitment to excellence across all disciplines.

“The new hybrid arena at ADEC is not only the first of its kind globally — it also sets a new benchmark offering a unique venue designed to meet the needs of both riders and horses year-round.”

The arena is a modern equestrian facility inspired by the traditions of Arab architecture and debuted with a series of events during the 2024–25 season.

This includes two major International Equestrian Federation-sanctioned tournaments held in partnership with the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation: the Abu Dhabi International Show Jumping Event CSI4-W and the UAE President’s Cup Show Jumping CSI5 (2025 Edition).

In addition, the ADEC hosted three international competitions in January 2025, all in the new hybrid arena: the 12th FBMA International Show Jumping Cup CSI2; Al-Shira’aa International Horse Show CSI3; and Al-Shira’aa International Horse Show CSI4-W.


With series on the line, Pakistan face Bangladesh in second T20I today

With series on the line, Pakistan face Bangladesh in second T20I today
Updated 4 sec ago

With series on the line, Pakistan face Bangladesh in second T20I today

With series on the line, Pakistan face Bangladesh in second T20I today
  • Bangladesh defeated Pakistan by seven wickets in first T20I between the two sides on Sunday
  • All three matches of the series will be played at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka


  

 

Islamabad: Pakistan will face a confident Bangladesh side in the second T20I cricket contest between the two sides today, Tuesday, at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. 

Pakistan will look to shrug off a disappointing seven-wicket defeat at the hands of the hosts on Sunday. The visitors struggled against a disciplined Bangladesh bowling attack to get dismissed for 110. Bangladesh managed to successfully chase the target with over 20 balls to spare. This was Bangladesh’s largest such victory over Pakistan and their fifth largest overall. 

“The second T20 International of three-match series between Pakistan and Bangladesh will be played in Dhaka today,” state broadcaster Radio Pakistan reported on Tuesday.

Pakistan white-ball Head Coach Mike Hesson last week blamed the first T20I defeat on the Dhaka pitch, describing it as “unacceptable.” However, he also admitted the visitors made some poor choices while batting, which included three run-outs as well. 

“I think (the pitch) is not ideal for anybody,” Hesson said at the post-match conference on Sunday. “Teams are trying to prepare for the Asia Cup or the (T20) World Cup. It is not acceptable.”

If Pakistan win against Bangladesh today, it will level the three-match T20I series between the two nations 1-1 before the final is played in Dhaka on July 24. 

Pakistan’s left-handed batter Fakhar Zaman is 107 runs away from becoming just the fifth Pakistani to score 2,000 T20I runs. 

Bangladesh (Probable XI): Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Litton Das (captain), Towhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali (wicketkeeper), Shamim Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Mustafizur Rahman and Taskin Ahmed.

Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Mohammad Haris (wicketkeeper), Hasan Nawaz, Salman Ali Agha (captain), Mohammad Nawaz, Khushdil Shah, Abbas Afridi, Faheem Ashraf, Salman Mirza and Abrar Ahmed.


Defending titleholder Fedor Gorst strikes on first day of World Pool Championship

Defending titleholder Fedor Gorst strikes on first day of World Pool Championship
Updated 37 min 52 sec ago

Defending titleholder Fedor Gorst strikes on first day of World Pool Championship

Defending titleholder Fedor Gorst strikes on first day of World Pool Championship
  • Tournament opens with colorful ceremony in Jeddah
  • 128 elite players from over 40 countries participating

JEDDAH: Defending titleholder Fedor Gorst won his first game on the opening day of the World Pool Championship here by defeating American Sam Henderson 9-3.

The championship opened with a vibrant and colorful ceremony on Monday night.

Nayef Aljawini, president of the Ƶn Billiard & Snooker Federation, delivered a speech at the event. Deputy Minister of Sports Khalid Al-Muawad, and Emily Frazer, CEO of Matchroom, were also present.

In other matches, Jayson Shaw from Scotland barely broke a sweat against his Ƶ opponent Khalid Al-Otaibi.

In a major shock, Vietnam’s Luong Duc Thien defeated one of the world’s best, America’s Shane van Boening, 9-8 after a long and thrilling match.

Meanwhile, two-time junior European Pool Championship winner Wojciech Szewczyk from Poland began his tournament with a 9-7 win over Taipei’s Fu Che Wei.

The competition has a double elimination format, where players must win two matches in race-to-nine racks to progress. From there, the final 64 enter a single elimination phase of race-to-11 racks, culminating in Saturday’s final, a race-to-15 showdown.

In addition, the Saudi Junior Championship begins on Tuesday with 16 players, including eight representing the Kingdom.

The Ƶ players are Abdulaziz Al-Aswad, Ibrahim Al-Aswad, Ibrahim Khazindar, Youssef Bukhari, Abdullah Al-Qabbani, Ziad Al-Qabbani, Hassan Al-Saleh, and Basil Hamida.

Running until July 26 at the Green Hall venue, the tournament features a record-breaking $1 million prize pool.

The contestants include 128 elite players from more than 40 countries, including powerhouses from the US, Taiwan, Germany, Philippines, UK, and host nation Ƶ.


Pakistan appoint former Newcastle legend Nolberto Solano as football head coach

Pakistan appoint former Newcastle legend Nolberto Solano as football head coach
Updated 23 min 11 sec ago

Pakistan appoint former Newcastle legend Nolberto Solano as football head coach

Pakistan appoint former Newcastle legend Nolberto Solano as football head coach
  • Solano has played 95 matches for Peru and has played for English football clubs Newcastle United, Aston Villa
  • Pakistan appoint Jorge Castañeira to serve as associate fitness coach for senior men’s national football team 

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) announced this week it has appointed former Newcastle legend Nolberto Solano as the new head coach of the national men’s and under-23 team.

Solano, a former international footballer who has played 95 matches for Peru, was a prominent English Premier League footballer who also played for high-profile teams such as Newcastle United and Aston Villa during his football career. 

He will replace Stephen Constantine, a seasoned football coach, who was affiliated with Pakistan from September 2023 till October 31, 2024. Constantine had previously managed the national football teams of Nepal, India, Malawi, Sudan and Rwanda. 

“Nolberto Solano, legendary Peruvian international and former Premier League star, has officially been appointed as the Head Coach of Senior Men’s National and U23 Team,” the PFF said. 

The federation said it had also hired Jorge Castañeira, describing him as a “globally respected performance and fitness coach,” to serve as associate fitness coach for the senior men’s national team.

“With over 30 years of elite-level experience, Jorge has worked across continents with top national teams and clubs,” the PFF said. 

PFF President Syed Mohsen Gilani said both new hirings would help Pakistan build a “strong and professional future” for football in the country. 

“With Solano and Castañeira joining us, we will give our players better facilities,” Gilani added.


Childhood fan Mbeumo joins Man Utd re-build

Childhood fan Mbeumo joins Man Utd re-build
Updated 22 July 2025

Childhood fan Mbeumo joins Man Utd re-build

Childhood fan Mbeumo joins Man Utd re-build

LONDON: Cameroon winger Bryan Mbeumo said he “grew up wearing” the Manchester United shirt on Monday after joining the club from Brentford on a deal until 2030, with an option for a further year.
Mbeumo, 25, will reportedly cost the 20-time Premier League champions an initial £65 million  having scored 20 goals in 38 league games last season for the Bees.
Tottenham, now managed by former Brentford boss Thomas Frank, were also chasing the France-born attacker before United’s improved offer sealed the move.
United’s third bid, worth an initial £65m with £6m in add-ons, was accepted last week.
“As soon as I knew there was a chance to join Manchester United, I had to take the opportunity to sign for the club of my dreams,” Mbeumo said in a United statement.
“The team whose shirt I wore growing up.
“This is a massive club, with an incredible stadium and amazing fans, we are all really determined to challenge for the biggest trophies,” he added.
United coach Ruben Amorim has signed two other players during this summer in an attempt to avoid a repeat of last season’s catastrophic display.
They lost to Tottenham in the Europa League final and a 15th-place finish in the top flight was their lowest since 1973-74.
Wolves forward Matheus Cunha and teenage Paraguayan defender Diego Leon have also moved to Old Trafford.
Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee struggled as Amorim’s main strikers last term.
“My mentality is to always be better than I was yesterday,” Mbeumo said.
“I know that I have the spirit and character to reach another level here learning from Ruben Amorim and playing alongside world-class players.
Mbeumo blossomed in six years at Brentford, scoring 70 goals and providing 51 assists in 242 appearances in all competitions following his move from French club Troyes in 2019.
“There is always a right time for a player to move on and, for Bryan, that time is now,” Brentford director of football Phil Giles said.
“He has the opportunity to go to one of the biggest clubs in the world, and we are very happy for him,” he added.
Mbeumo helped the Bees win promotion to the Premier League in 2021 and was instrumental in their impressive 10th-place finish in 2024-25.
“We are delighted to have secured another one of our primary targets ahead of the pre-season tour,” the Red Devils’ director of football Jason Wilcox said.
“The experience in the US will be the perfect opportunity for Bryan to work with Ruben and his new team-mates as we prepare for an exciting season ahead,” he added.
In terms of United outgoings, Marcus Rashford is set to leave his boyhood club for Barcelona and an announcement could come on Tuesday.
Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho, Antony and Tyrell Malacia continue looking for new clubs and are not expected to fly to the US as part of the tour squad.
United start their pre-season tour of the United States on Sunday by facing West Ham before their opening game of the new Premier League season against Arsenal on August 17.


Al-Ittihad Club: A season of success and community leadership

Al-Ittihad Club: A season of success and community leadership
Updated 21 July 2025

Al-Ittihad Club: A season of success and community leadership

Al-Ittihad Club: A season of success and community leadership
  • The 2024-25 season saw the Jeddah club claim a 10th Saudi Pro League title, their second success in 3 years
  • Under the supervision of the club’s nonprofit organization, the Social Responsibility Department has implemented more than 42 quality initiatives in line with Saudi Vision 2030

JEDDAH: Al-Ittihad Club, the oldest sports club in the Kingdom of Ƶ, continues to strengthen its position as a leading national sports institution that not only achieves championships on the field, but also strives to make a positive impact beyond its walls.

At the conclusion of the 2024–2025 season, which saw a 10th Saudi Pro league title win, the club presents an inspiring model of sustainable corporate social responsibility.

Under the supervision of the club’s nonprofit organization, the Social Responsibility Department has implemented more than 42 quality initiatives targeting people, the environment and the community, both locally and internationally. These efforts align with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which aims to build a vibrant society, a thriving economy and an enhanced quality of life for all within an ambitious nation.

These initiatives reflect a clear leadership vision, firm strategic support and almost three consecutive years of consistent, institutional CSR activity, shaping Al-Ittihad into a national role model for sustainable development through sport.

Strategic Support from Club Leadership

This success was driven by the vision of Al-Ittihad Chairman Loay Mishaby, who made social responsibility a strategic priority for the club, not just as a symbolic commitment, but also as a pillar of its institutional identity.

The chairman’s vision was supported by the board of directors, who helped expand the reach and depth of initiatives through robust oversight, strategic facilitation and enabling public-private partnerships.

“This season, our goal at the nonprofit organization was to amplify our reach and deepen our impact through inclusive and meaningful CSR programs,” said Dr. Faisal Basha, board member of Al-Ittihad Club.

“By collaborating with more sponsors and partners who share our values, we were able to host a diverse range of events that brought joy and connection to fans across all walks of life. We are grateful to every entity that supported our vision of using the club’s platform to serve the community, promote inclusion and inspire a lasting positive change.”

Executive Leadership with Long-Term Impact

On the operational front, Ahmed Sadig Diab, CSR manager at Al-Ittihad for the past seven years, continued to lead the club’s community programming with a focus on sustainability and long-term social benefit. For almost three years, Diab has directed a well-structured CSR strategy designed to address actual community needs while building strong partnerships with public and private sectors, in line with national development priorities.

This year, the program experienced strategic growth thanks to the involvement of Ms. Dania Al-Maeena, CEO of the nonprofit organization at Al-Ittihad.

Under her leadership, the institutional framework of CSR was strengthened by expanding alliances with national charities and development organizations, optimizing program design and execution, and ensuring the long-term social value of every initiative, particularly in the areas of education, empowerment and environmental responsibility.

Al-Maeena said: “At Al-Ittihad Club, we believe football is more than a game — it’s a powerful platform to connect hearts and serve the community. This season, we expanded our CSR initiatives to reach all segments of our fans, including people with special needs and dedicated volunteers. We created opportunities for them to meet their favorite players, engage with them up close and enjoy meaningful moments within the club.

“Our commitment remains strong: To make Al-Ittihad a club that welcomes everyone and makes each individual feel like a true part of its story,” she added. “We focused on the Kingdom’s 2030 Vision strategy, with initiatives centered around developing capabilities, achieving environmental sustainability and empowering society, through effective partnerships and engaging volunteers for a vibrant society and an ambitious nation.”

Strategic Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030

All CSR initiatives this season were carefully aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, especially its pillars of “A Vibrant Society,” “A Thriving Economy” and “An Ambitious Nation.” The club made deliberate efforts to design programs that contribute directly to these national goals — from youth empowerment and quality-of-life improvements to environmental stewardship, volunteer engagement and education.

Educational and awareness programs empowered children and youth through football and learning, while health and humanitarian initiatives promoted public well-being and reinforced social solidarity. The club’s partnerships with government entities and NGOs served as a practical model of how sports institutions can directly contribute to national transformation.

Environmental Leadership: A Global First at COP16

One of the club’s most significant milestones this season was becoming the first sports club in the world to officially take part in the UN COP16 Conference, which focused on combating desertification and preserving vegetation. The event, held in Riyadh, saw Al-Ittihad organize a dedicated matchday activation where players were joined by children wearing the conference’s branding, with support from SAFE Security.

Additionally, Al-Ittihad partnered with Roshn to launch a marine environmental initiative, cleaning coastal areas and raising awareness about ocean preservation — reinforcing the club’s commitment to sustainability and green initiatives.

Ramadan of Generosity: “Fekkat Reeq” and Eid Clothing Drives

During Ramadan, the club implemented the “Fekkat Reeq” campaign, distributing more than 10,000 Iftar meals across 10 cities in Ƶ in collaboration with Nama Charity and sponsored by Roshn. The initiative targeted workers, travelers and underserved communities, highlighting the club’s humanitarian commitment.

Al-Ittihad also collaborated with Kiswat Farah Charity to organize the Eid Clothing Drive, which saw wide engagement from fans and first-team players alike, while the distribution of Ramadan food baskets reached dozens of families in need — echoing the club’s core values of generosity and compassion.

Empowering Special Needs and Raising Awareness

As part of its commitment to inclusivity and special needs empowerment, Al-Ittihad organized its fourth consecutive Autism Awareness Program, benefiting more than 40 children through sports and arts activities focused on early detection and community integration.

A recreational day for early childhood students was also held at the club, engaging 50 children in interactive, football-themed learning experiences.

In October, Al-Ittihad partnered with Zahra Association and Roshn for a Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign, during which 22 children walked onto the pitch with players, and the team captain wore a pink armband to symbolize solidarity with patients and survivors.

Education and Career Empowerment

As part of its commitment to youth education, the club partnered with KidZania to deliver a unique edutainment experience for 100 children, allowing them to play and learn in a football simulation environment styled with the club’s identity.

On the career development front, Al-Ittihad hosted a Job Guidance Forum in partnership with the Human Resources Development Fund, attended by more than 80 job seekers who received guidance on leveraging government employment initiatives, supporting the “Thriving Economy” pillar of Vision 2030.

International Outreach: Zaatari Refugee Championship

Affirming its belief that humanitarian work knows no borders, Al-Ittihad took part in the Zaatari Championship for refugee children, organized under the Ƶn Football Federation and King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center featuring eight Saudi clubs. Al-Ittihad’s U-12 team won the title, but the greater impact was the construction of a dedicated locker room reflecting the club’s identity, and the installation of a large viewing screen — bringing joy and a sense of belonging to children living in the camp.

Volunteerism: Contributing to the Million Volunteers Goal

Aligned with Vision 2030’s national target of reaching 1 million volunteers per year, Al-Ittihad registered more than 320 volunteers on the National Volunteering Platform. These individuals contributed to the club’s events, logistics and campaigns, helping build a culture of civic engagement and responsible participation among youth and fans.

Sports Beyond the Pitch

Al-Ittihad’s initiatives aim to demonstrate that football is more than just a game; it is a powerful platform for positive social transformation. With visionary leadership from Mishaby, and professional on-ground leadership by Diab and Al-Maeena, Al-Ittihad has elevated CSR from a supporting function into a core strategic pillar of the club’s identity.

The 2024–2025 season will be remembered not only for victories on the field, but also for the lasting impact made in the lives of children, families, volunteers and communities, all in alignment with the values and aspirations of Vision 2030.