KUWAIT CITY, June 17: Despite the impressive achievements of the Kuwait Handball Federation in recent years, a series of administrative challenges now threatens to stall its momentum. Under the leadership of its current board and committees, the Federation had successfully restored Kuwait’s handball teams to the podium at Arab and Asian levels—reviving the “Blues” and delighting fans across the country.

However, the Federation is currently grappling with a governance issue, as recent attempts to convene a Board of Directors meeting have failed due to the absence of both the President and Vice President. This has created a ripple effect, delaying crucial decisions such as approving financial dues for the committees that organized the 10th Arab Handball Championship, which concluded in Kuwait on May 11. According to the Federation’s bylaws, a meeting can only proceed with the presence of either the President or the Vice President.

The delay is also affecting preparations for the upcoming 2025–2026 season. Without finalized competition regulations and schedules, clubs are unable to structure their training plans or plan for the season ahead.

Stakeholders—including clubs and committee members—are urgently awaiting a resolution to ensure that dues are paid and that the framework for the new season is in place.

Meanwhile, attention turns to the court as the 57th edition of the Handball Federation Cup kicks off tomorrow for the 2024–2025 season. Group A features three opening matches: Al-Sahel vs Al-Qurain, Al-Yarmouk vs Al-Tadamon, and Al-Nasr vs Al-Salmiya. All matches will be held at the Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Sports Complex Hall, with the tournament scheduled to run until June 28.

Historically, Kuwait Club leads the Cup’s honor roll with 14 titles, including an impressive run of 11 consecutive wins. Al-Arabi follows with 10 titles, then Kazma and Al-Salmiya with 8 each, Al-Qadisiya with 7, Khaitan with 4, Al-Fahaheel with 3, and Al-Sulaibikhat with 2.