Al-Baker's handball proposal is still under discussion at Qadsia

A file photo of players in action.

KUWAIT CITY, July 5:  The proposal submitted by Fahad Al-Baker, a member of Qadsia Club’s General Assembly, to convert and manage the club’s first handball team as a commercial entity remains in a phase of ongoing review, with both sides continuing to exchange views after initial approval in principle from the club’s board of directors.

Qadsia had previously given preliminary approval to the idea of transferring the management of the handball team to an independent commercial structure led by Al-Baker, while attaching a set of conditions that must be met before moving toward a final agreement.

In its formal letter to Al-Baker International Import & Export Company, the club clarified that the project could proceed only after several key requirements are addressed. These include defining whether the proposal is limited to the first team or extends to all age categories, and submitting a full operational and financial plan covering salaries for technical and administrative staff, player contracts, foreign professionals, bonuses, and all related running costs.

The club also requested a bank guarantee equal to the team’s full seasonal budget to ensure financial commitments are secured, and contractual obligations are fully met. It further emphasized that the existing agreement related to the development and operation of Court No. 3 remains valid, and that any new investment must not conflict with current contracts or affect the club’s assets.

In reply, the Company issued a detailed statement addressing Qadsia’s remarks, providing legal and administrative clarifications while reaffirming its commitment to the initiative.

The company stressed that the goal of the proposal is to support Qadsia Club and restore its handball program to its competitive standing, arguing that the success of the project would serve the club as a whole.

It also stated that the financial issues referenced by the club are unrelated to the entity submitting the proposal. The company explained that the case in question is still under judicial review and has not reached a final ruling, meaning it cannot be treated as an established debt or used as a reason to delay or reject the project.

Furthermore, the company underlined that the applicant is a legally independent entity with separate financial liability, and, therefore, should not be linked to disputes involving other parties.

Al-Baker’s side added that the proposal should be assessed on its sporting, administrative, and financial merits, focusing on its potential to benefit Qadsia Club rather than external considerations.

It also highlighted the credibility of Fahad Abdulrahman Al-Baker, noting his previous two-season tenure managing Qadsia’s handball team, during which all financial obligations were reportedly settled without any outstanding dues, according to club records.

The company further pointed to his history of sponsorships and support initiatives for Qadsia teams, stating that all commitments were fulfilled in full and without disputes.

By Khaled Al-Enezi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff