Qatar inaugurates Al Thumama Stadium, 2022 World Cup's Sixth Venue

In a festive and traditional atmosphere, Qatar inaugurated Al Thumama Stadium, the sixth venue for the 2022 Qatar FIFA World Cup, which witnessed the final of the 49th HH the Amir Cup between Al Sadd and Al Rayyan.Al Sadd defeated Al Rayyan 5-4 on penalties to win HH the Amir Cup.His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani attended the Al Thumama Stadium opening ceremony.Also, FIFA President Gianni Infantino and several heads of Arab and international sports associations attended the opening ceremony.The ceremony included shows and scenes that embody the traditional customs that characterise the people of Qatar and the region.The stadium resembles the 'gahfiya' head cap worn by men and boys across the Arab world.Located 12km south of Doha's glittering skyline, Al Thumama Stadium will host FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 matches up to and including the quarter-finals.The 40,000-capacity stadium was designed by Qatari architect Ibrahim Al Jaidah and received the MIPIM/Architectural Review Future Project Award 2018.In legacy mode, the stadium's capacity will be reduced to meet local needs and provide quality sporting infrastructure to developing nations.The remaining 20,000-seat arena will be used for football and other sporting events.A branch of the world-renowned Aspetar Sports Clinic will open on-site, while a boutique hotel will also replace the stadium's upper stands.The precinct surrounding the stadium will become a community hub with facilities for multiple sports, including handball, volleyball, basketball, and swimming.Tracks for running and cycling weave their way around the precinct as well, providing an outlet for sportsmen and women of every stripe.