Sports Reporter/Doha


Senior officials from the Qatar Stars League yesterday unveiled the plans for this year’s Heir Apparent Cup Final.
In a special briefing, QSL deputy CEO Hani Ballan and chief of commercial Abdulrahman al-Dosari outlined details of this year’s final between Al Sadd and Lekhwiya.
Ballan and al-Dosari were joined by Jassim El Haim from the Civil Defense at the media conference.
While the final will kick-off at 6.45pm on Saturday, there are a host of activities planned before the match.
Al-Dosari revealed plans for special fan zones outside the ground which will host a freestyle football show, a Harley Davidson motorbike exhibition, a classic cars display, big screen TVs as well as food and drink facilities.
Inside the stadium there will also be performances from Hala Al Turk, fire-shows, laser shows, acrobatics and military band displays.
There will be a prize draw where fans can win QR2,000,000 worth of prizes.
Al-Dosari said: “On match day, come along early because at 5pm, the entertainment kicks-off inside the stadium.
“We would like to thank Jassim and his team because they have a very important role to play in this event. We would also like to thank everyone at the Ministry of Interior because they are doing their best to make this a great event.
“Everyone at QSL is excited to make this an event to remember.”
The Heir Apparent, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani will personally congratulate the winners.
Ballan said:  “I have to thank all the partners for making this final better and easier to organise than ever before. My first message is one of congratulations to both clubs who have reached the final.
“Al Sadd and Lekhwiya now have the honour of shaking hands with the Heir Apparent. We want to try and make this final an unforgettable day and a great match.
“I wish for all football fans to enjoy the occasion because we want this to be a great final.”
With so many different events running simultaneously, organisation and security will be key.
El Hail, head of stadium security, said: “I would say to everyone to get to the ground around two hours before kick-off. The earlier you come to the stadium, the better the experience. The activities start early and there is air conditioning. Please remember that on these prestigious occasions there are security checks so make sure you plan your time wisely and enter the stadium in advance.
“Fans can enter the stadium at all gates from 2 – 9 and we would like to highlight that gate 9 is the specific access point for families.
“Another benefit of coming early is the easy access to parking and the shorter distance needed to walk in to the stadium. We encourage you on this particular occasion to car share with your friends and family due to the space restrictions in the Al Sadd area, this will also assist in minimising traffic congestion.”