Asian Handball Federation introduces strict age checks for youth championship

Al-Qurain’s new signing Hassan Al-Mahdi in action during a match.

KUWAIT CITY, July 22: The Asian Handball Federation has notified its member associations of new regulations governing participation in the 11th Asian Youth Handball Championship, a qualifying event for the 2027 World Championship, which will be hosted by Jordan from August 20 to 31, 2026.

According to the federation’s official guidelines, only players born between 2008 and 2011 will be eligible to compete. All participating players must have their official documents completed and approved before the tournament begins, while they must also be at least 15 years old before appearing in their first match.

The federation confirmed that it has the authority to conduct biological age assessments for any selected player during the tournament at a specialized medical facility to ensure compliance with the eligibility rules.

The Asian body warned that any team found fielding an ineligible player will face severe sanctions, including immediate disqualification, cancellation of all results, a $10,000 fine, and referral of the case to the Executive Committee for further disciplinary measures.

The new regulations are part of the federation’s efforts to enhance monitoring procedures, protect the integrity of competitions, and guarantee fair opportunities for all participating teams.

Meanwhile, Al-Qurain Club has strengthened its squad ahead of the new handball season by securing the services of local players Mohammed Al-Yahyouh, Hassan Al-Mahdi, and goalkeeper Fahad Salboukh.

The club has also renewed the contract of Algerian head coach Rabah Gharbi and completed the signings of German professional Valentin Spon and Estonian player Dener Janima as part of its preparations for the upcoming campaign.

By Khaled Al-Enezi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff