QNB, acting in its dual capacity as tournament sponsor and strategic partner of the Qatar men’s national handball team, has celebrated the historic sporting achievement of Qatar reaching the final of the 24th Men’s Handball World Championship in Doha by hosting a team reception recently.
Players and officials were honoured by the bank in recognition of Qatar becoming the first ever non-European side to reach a world handball final following knockout stage victories over Austria, Germany and Poland.
In a hard-fought final, Qatar lost 25-22 to Olympic and European champions France at a packed and hugely supportive Lusail Multipurpose Hall.
Previously, no Asian team had reached the quarter-finals stage and only two African sides had ever reached the semi-finals.
Commenting on Qatar’s performance at the handball world championship, QNB Group CEO Ali Ahmed al-Kuwari said: “QNB is delighted to be recognising the outstanding performance of the Qatar men’s handball team during the recent world championship. Coach Valero Rivera and the players were an inspiration to many and they have captivated the hearts and minds of the population by their stirring on-court performances.
“Their achievements were both considerable and historic and combined with an excellent organised tournament, they have left a lasting sporting legacy for Qatar sport to emulate and be proud of in future years.”
A cornerstone of QNB’s corporate social responsibility programme is the support given to national and grassroots sporting activities and organisations across Qatar. This is aligned with Qatar National Vision to become a true centre of sporting excellence in the Mena region and an exceptional destination of sports tourism.

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