The hosting rights for the 2030 Asian Games went to Doha after the Qatar capital beat Riyadh at the general assembly of the Olympic Council of Asia on Wednesday, the regional governing body announced.
The meeting was live-streamed following which OCA President Sheikh Ahmad Al Fahad Al Sabah announced the winner. He also added that Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, will host the 2034 edition of the games.
Speaking about the vote which took place amid a long-running political dispute between Qatar and Saudi Arabia, he said “That means no winner, no loser.” The OCA President went on to thank the Saudi and Qatari foreign ministers and conference host Oman for helping to broker the agreement.
“Thank you, Asia, for solidarity and coordination.” he added.
The Qatari officials celebrated the moment by wearing masks and waving flags. The vote totals were not announced immediately.
Qatar will also host the 2022 FIFA World Cup.