Kuwait Volleyball Federation withdraws from the Gulf Games due to insufficient preparation

04/05/2026

KUWAIT CITY, May 4: The Kuwait Volleyball Federation has officially withdrawn from the 4th Gulf Games, scheduled to take place in Qatar from May 11 to 22, with the decision approved by the Kuwait Olympic Committee.

The federation said the move was made to protect players and avoid injury risks after a long suspension of training caused by recent regional developments, which halted sports activity in the country since February.

Secretary-General Talal Al-Nimash explained that the timing made participation unfeasible, as the gap between the decision to resume training on April 26 and the start of competition is only 14 days—an insufficient period for proper preparation and physical readiness.

He also noted that several key first-team players would be unavailable, further weakening the squad’s ability to compete effectively in the tournament.

Al-Nimash stressed that the withdrawal decision prioritizes player welfare and aims to ensure Kuwait’s national team continues to represent the country in a manner befitting its sporting reputation.

By Khaled Al-Enezi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff