Kuwait’s national team has claimed the title of the first Arab Wheelchair Basketball Championship, defeating Egypt 72–68 in a thrilling final hosted in Kuwait with the participation of seven national teams.
The championship decider, held at the Kuwaiti Sports Club for the Disabled, was attended by senior officials and dignitaries, including Director General of the Public Authority for Disability Affairs Dr. Dalal Al-Othman, President of the Asian Wheelchair Basketball Federation and head of the Kuwaiti Sports Club for the Disabled Shafi Al-Hajri, Egypt’s Ambassador to Kuwait H.E. Mohamed Abu Al-Wafa, along with representatives of sponsoring and supporting bodies for sports for people with physical disabilities.
Tournament standings — Kuwait – Champions; Egypt – Runners-up; Palestine – Third place after defeating Syria 53–39; Libya defeated Jordan 50–42 for fourth place
Dr. Dalal Al-Othman emphasized the Authority’s commitment to supporting the Disabled Sports Club, describing it as a cornerstone in developing sports for people with physical disabilities and a “true factory for champions” representing Kuwait.
She noted that the Authority continues to develop programs and services that meet the needs of people with disabilities and promote their integration into society. “Sports are one of the most important paths to fostering independence, building self-confidence, and developing abilities,” she said.
Al-Othman congratulated the Kuwaiti team on their title and praised the strong performances across all participating teams, affirming continued encouragement for athletes to achieve results that raise Kuwait’s flag high.
Shafi Al-Hajri described the championship as a clear message of inclusion and empowerment, reflecting Arab countries’ belief in the capabilities of people with disabilities and their active role in society through sports.
He said the tournament carried a strong humanitarian message that highlighted the players’ determination and ability to challenge disability. “The real winner is the Arab brotherhood gathering,” he said, adding that the event underscores Kuwait’s leading role in supporting sports generally and disability sports in particular.
Ambassador Al-Wafa praised the high-level competition and the spirit of determination displayed by the players. He commended the professional organization by the Kuwaiti Sports Federation for the Disabled and the Kuwaiti Basketball Federation, which he said earned appreciation from all delegations.
He described Kuwait’s performance as “honorable,” reflecting the “great renaissance” in Kuwaiti sports and the strong official support for empowering people with disabilities.
Highlighting the deep-rooted ties between Egypt and Kuwait, the ambassador said the achievement represented a shared victory, symbolizing love, cooperation, and integration between the two brotherly nations.
The championship not only delivered exciting competition but also reinforced the power of sport as a tool for inclusion, dignity, and regional solidarity.
