The event concluded the team’s time in Qatar as part of its traditional mid-season Qatar Winter Tour. In addition to recording a world’s first, the team also met with thousands of Qatari football fans and indulged in cultural activities organised by the Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA). The team’s packed itinerary included a trip to the magnificent Qatari sand dunes of the Inland Sea for players Adrien Rabiot, Layvin Kurzawa and Marco Verratti, and a taste of Arabian hospitality at a traditional campsite.
Back in Doha, Julian Draxler, Thomas Meunier and Presnel Kimpembe learned about Qatar’s culture and history with a visit to the Msheireb Museums, while Dani Alves, Thiago Motta and Kevin Trapp were treated to a traditional Qatari meal on the rooftop of the Shangri-La Hotel, where they had a stunning view of the iconic Doha Corniche.
Rashed al-Qurese, Chief Marketing and Promotion Officer at QTA commented: “We are delighted to have once again hosted the Paris Saint-Germain squad in Qatar to explore and enjoy what our country has to offer, from state-of-the art sport facilities to authentic tourist experiences.”
He continued: “We are particularly excited to have the team spread Qatar’s message of welcome to the world, following the country’s announcement of visa-free entry to 80 nationalities.” To connect with their fans – young and old - several players took part in a public signing session as well as a training clinic led by coach Unai Emery. In addition, Paris Saint-Germain FIFA Qatari player Aameghessib and France’s Mannika took part in an esports tournament showcasing top Qatari talent, before taking on several Paris Saint-Germain football players.
Since 2012, QTA and Paris Saint-Germain have worked on a strategic partnership to promote Qatar’s sport and leisure tourism offerings. QTA has hosted several tours for Paris Saint-Germain teams, including the Qatar Handball Tour 2014 and the Qatar Ladies Tour 2015 and the Qatar Winter Tours in 2013 and 2015.