Willi Grill, the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) secretary-general, on Monday applauded Qatar for their ‘excellent arrangements’ made to host the ISSF World Cup Shotgun 2023.
The Mar 4-13 championship is being hosted at the iconic Lusail Shooting Range where international 465 shooters from 63 countries are in action.
“We have come here for a few days to see the athletes in action. And of course, it is very important for the ISSF is to see the organisation in Qatar,” Grill said in an interview. “I know this shooting range very well. They always do their best. I have to say honestly, they did more than the very best,” he added.
“Last time we were here in 2019, they were outstanding as they prepared in an outstanding manner. To see what they do for the athletes and what we need, the atmosphere around the athletes, the rest area, everything is done in an excellent manner. I think probably this will be the best World Cup this year,” Grill added.
When asked if there would be more shooting competitions held in Qatar, the German said: “For sure, we will come back here. There are some plans, yes. This is the first World Cup in the history of Qatar, but have prepared very well with the competitions here. They have hosted Asian championship and Grand Prix events in recent times. They know how to do it, be it rifle or pistol competitions. The future will be open for this country as this country does not limit itself (in hosting sports events). I don’t think we will face any logistics problems like visa. To come to Qatar, it is actually very simple.”
Grill said the shooting family will look to Europe for the next big championship.