HH Khalid bin Hamad inaugurates FIBA 3x3 World Tour Manama 2024

Manama, Nov. 1 (BNA): His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports (SCYS), Chairman of the General Sports Authority (GSA), and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee (BOC), officially opened the FIBA 3x3 World Tour Manama 2024, marking the second consecutive year the event takes place in the Kingdom.

The opening ceremony was attended by His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Deputy President of the BOC and head of the tournament's organising committee; Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy; Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism; Shaikh Saud bin Ali Al Thani, President of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA); Steven C. Bondy, Ambassador of the United States to Bahrain; Faisal bin Hareb bin Hamad Al Busaidi, Oman’s Ambassador to Bahrain, along with other notable guests and officials.

HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa noted that hosting the IBA 3x3 World Tour for the second year underscores Bahrain’s commitment to supporting sports and strengthening its position as a global sports destination. His Highness expressed confidence that fans would enjoy competitive games, with Bahraini players gaining valuable experience by competing against top international athletes.

HH Shaikh Khalid extended his best wishes to all participating teams and emphasised the importance of providing optimal facilities to ensure the tour’s success, reflecting Bahrain’s passion for sports and fair competition.

The ceremony began with the national anthem, followed by a welcome address by His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, Bahrain Olympic Committee (BOC) Deputy President.

His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Ali expressed appreciation to His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa for his patronage and extended thanks to the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), governmental and private sector contributors, sponsors, and organising committees.

Shaikh Saud bin Ali Al Thani commended Bahrain’s warm hospitality and valued its partnership with FIBA, extending his best wishes for success to all participating teams.

The event included artistic performances and a parade of teams, creating an energetic atmosphere before the tournament officially began in front of an enthusiastic crowd.

His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa presented a commemorative gift to His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa to mark the occasion.