Kuwait Club players celebrate with the championship trophy as officials look on during the awarding ceremony.

KUWAIT CITY, June 29: Kuwait Club continued its stronghold on local handball by narrowly defeating Al-Qadsia 30-29 in the final of the 57th edition of the Handball Cup at Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Sports Complex in Sabah Al-Salem. In the third-place playoff, Al-Salmiya secured a 34-28 win over Kazma.

This latest triumph marks Kuwait Club’s 15th Handball Cup title and its 12th consecutive victory in the competition. The win also completes a remarkable league and cup double for the 2024-2025 season, while Kazma claimed the Super Cup.

Khaled Al-Ghanim, Chairman of Kuwait Club’s Board of Directors, emphasized that the championship was the result of exceptional teamwork and collective effort, which have cemented the club’s prominence in the local handball scene. “Our successes come not only from the dedication of our players and staff but also from the unwavering support of our fans—the strongest and most vital link in our journey,” he said.

Al-Ghanim expressed gratitude to the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, for his dedication to Kuwaiti sports and for fostering media coverage that enhances the nation’s sporting achievements. He also congratulated Al-Qadsia for their spirited performance and exemplary sportsmanship during the final.

He praised the Handball Association’s Secretary-General, Qaid Al-Adwani, and the Board of Directors for organizing a highly successful season, noting that the intense final between Kuwait Club and Al-Qadsia was among the most competitive in recent years.

Highlighting Kuwait Club’s dominance, Al-Ghanim remarked that winning nearly all team sports championships this season aligns with the club’s long-term ambition to consistently reach the top.

Looking ahead, he revealed that the club’s technical and administrative teams will convene soon to develop plans for the upcoming season, including decisions on both professional and local player lineups.

Kuwait Handball Association Secretary Qaid Al-Adwani thanked the enthusiastic crowds at the final, underscoring how their presence added a special atmosphere. “Kuwait Club and Al-Qadsia delivered a spectacular match that showcased the strength and evolution of Kuwaiti handball,” he said.

Adwani also shared optimism about the 2025-2026 season, which promises to feature an even higher level of competition and innovative initiatives from the Board. The association is exploring sponsorship opportunities for the Premier League, including financial incentives for players, aimed at raising the quality and excitement of the league.

Ali Al-Khader, head coach of the Al-Ameed handball team, reflected on the long and challenging season, noting it spanned from national team commitments with Haitham Al-Rashidi to the leadership of esteemed Saeed Hejazi. He highlighted the team’s achievement in winning both the league and cup titles and revealed plans to participate in six local and international tournaments, with preparations set to begin in August.

Abdulaziz Al-Shammari of Al-Abyad congratulated his teammates for overcoming injuries and player absences to defeat a strong Al-Qadsiya squad. He also praised the fans and club management for their vital roles in this success.

Meanwhile, Kuwait Club’s Hussein Al-Mutawa credited the team’s excellent performance this season to the hard work of the technical and administrative staff, and the steadfast support of club management led by Khaled Al-Ghanim, who helped the team overcome challenges to secure both league and cup titles.

By Khaled Al-Enezi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff