MUSCAT, JAN 12
The Sultanate of Oman represented by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth and Al Nasr club will host the West Asian Club Athletics Championship 2026 in Salalah city during April 2-5, 2026. The prestigious West Asian event will take place at the Sultan Qaboos Youth Complex for Culture and Entertainment in Salalah and Salalah Sports Complex.
Faisal bin Hafidh al Shanfari, Treasurer of Al Nasr Club and Chairman of the Organising Committee for the Championship, confirmed that Al Nasr’s bid was officially approved following the federation’s confidence in the club’s organisational capabilities. “We are deeply grateful for the trust placed in Al Nasr Club by the West Asian Athletics Association and the Oman Athletics Association,” Al Shanfari told Oman Observer.
“Hosting this championship aligns perfectly with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth’s vision of attracting regional and international sporting events and strengthening Oman’s presence on the global sports map.” he said.
The championship is expected to attract more than 400 athletes representing elite athletics clubs from across West Asia. A total of 45 track and field events will be contested including 22 men’s events, 22 women’s events and a mixed relay ensuring a high-level and inclusive competition.
To ensure smooth delivery, Al Shanfari revealed that Al Nasr Club’s Board of Directors has established a central organising committee, supported by specialised sub-committees overseeing logistics, operations, visas, accommodation, transportation, media and team relations.
The 2026 edition follows the successful 2025 championship in Qatar which featured athletes from 13 West Asian countries and underlined the tournament’s strong technical reputation and competitive depth.
“This championship represents a valuable opportunity for Omani athletes to compete at the highest regional level, gain experience and enhance their chances of achieving podium finish,” he said. “It will contribute significantly to athlete development and to increasing Oman’s medal record at the West Asian level,” Al Shanfari said.
“The preparations have been underway since an early stage to ensure the championship is delivered to an international standards, reflecting Oman’s proven ability to host major sporting events,” he added.
“Hosting this event is a major technical gain for athletics in Oman. It will provide a high-level competitive environment for athletes, referees and administrators, contributing directly to the development of the sport both technically and organisationally,” he concluded.
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