Doha: President of the Asian and UAE Fencing Federations and a member of the Executive Board of the International Fencing Federation, Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, praised the outstanding organization of the Doha 2026 Grand Prix Fencing Championship currently being held in Doha at the Aspire Complex, noting that the extensive experience gained by Qatari officials over more than 20 years has clearly contributed to the event's success.

According to Qatar News Agency, Al Qasimi expressed his pride in the remarkable Qatari organization of this edition of the Grand Prix Fencing Championship in the Epee category, which Doha has brilliantly hosted for 21 years, attracting top world champions aiming for achievements and medals, reflecting the prestigious status of the championship on the international stage.

The Asian federation president highlighted the notable progress of fencing in Asia, evident at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where Asian athletes won more than six medals amid strong participation from various national teams. He emphasized that the continent has begun competing strongly and achieving global success in fencing.

Al Qasimi noted that holding the Grand Prix in cooperation with the International Fencing Federation and the Qatari Federation aligns with the International Federation's strategy to promote the sport and develop technical skills. He also pointed out that the presence of Honorary President of the International Olympic Committee, Thomas Bach, and President of the International Fencing Federation, Abdel Monem El Husseini, supports the sport and strengthens the Asian Federation's plans to expand fencing.

He stressed that the Asian Fencing Federation aims to increase the continent's share of medals in the upcoming Olympic Games, expand the sport's reach, focus on youth categories through training camps and courses, and promote women's refereeing, creating a comprehensive system to develop a new generation of referees, coaches, and athletes capable of enhancing Asian fencing.