Qatar Launches Winter Sports Programme in Desert as Part of 2026 Year of Culture
Qatar has launched the Winter Sports Development Programme in Doha, the first major event of the Qatar Canada Mexico 2026 Year of Culture. The initiative brings winter sports including curling, figure skating and ice hockey to the desert nation, with over 60 children currently enrolled in learn-to-play programmes. Canada's ambassador to Qatar said the launch comes at a meaningful time, emphasizing that culture and sport bring humanity together. The year-long programme aims to build grassroots participation and create pathways to competition.