Doha: The Qatar Athletics Federation announced today that preparations are complete for Doha to host the third round of the World Athletics Diamond League, set to take place this Friday at the Suhail Bin Hamad Stadium at Qatar Sports Club.
According to Qatar News Agency, the event organizing committee revealed that 128 athletes, including 45 Olympic champions in track and field, will participate in the competition. President of the Qatar Athletics Federation Mohammed Issa Al Fadala stated at a press conference that the lineup of participants includes some of the world's best record-holding athletes. He emphasized that the federation consistently strives to ensure that the Doha leg stands out both in technical quality and record performances, as it has been known for over the years.
He added that the athletes will compete in 14 events (8 for men and 6 for women) and that this year's edition will see the return of the men's high jump, which was absent from last year's competition. He noted that this season will be particularly competitive, with the World Athletics Championships set to take place in Tokyo in September, and athletes are keen to arrive at that event in top form.
The President of the Qatar Athletics Federation stressed the importance of achieving success in both the organizational and technical aspects of the event, to reaffirm Qatar's high standing in hosting international athletics competitions. He also confirmed that, to distinguish the Doha round from others around the world, the federation has increased the prize money, particularly for athletes who set new records in track or field events. Additional financial bonuses have been allocated for those who achieve new marks.
Al Fadala expressed full confidence in the event's audience success, especially after the extensive promotional campaign carried out by the organizing committee across schools in Qatar, aimed at both publicizing the event and expanding the sport fan base. He also noted their efforts to promote environmental sustainability standards in organizing athletics events.