Honorary President of the Kuwait Winter Games Club, Sheikh Jaber Bandar Al-Sabah.

KUWAIT CITY, Jan 14: Honorary President of the Kuwait Winter Games Club, Sheikh Jaber Bandar Al-Sabah, affirmed that intensive preparations are underway to deliver a professionally organized 2026 Ice Hockey World Championship Division IV, scheduled to be hosted in Kuwait next April. He noted that the event will reflect the significant progress achieved by winter sports in the country.

During his inspection of the club’s ice rink, which will stage the tournament matches, Sheikh Jaber said the organizing committee is working to meet all technical and organizational standards required by the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF).

He explained that preparations will soon begin on upgrading the arena, along with facilities for players and referees, in full compliance with IIHF regulations. Plans also include setting up a dedicated fan zone near the venue, featuring entertainment activities and competitions designed to enhance the spectator experience.

Sheikh Jaber highlighted that hosting the championship for the second time underscores Kuwait’s growing standing in ice hockey. He expressed his appreciation for the support and patronage of Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi.

He also praised the efforts of the club’s board of directors, chaired by Fahid Al-Ajmi, in organizing the event, which will bring together national teams from Singapore, Armenia, Iran, Indonesia, and Malaysia, alongside the host nation, Kuwait. He concluded by thanking the Public Authority for Sport, participating government bodies, and national sponsors for their continued support.