Doha, Sunday, 6th September, 2020.

In line with the Qatar Stars League’s keenness to respond to everything that is reported in various media outlets and on social media platforms, and as an explanation of what was recently raised about the schedule of matches for the first weeks of the 2020-21 season QNB Stars League and the stadiums that are used, the QSL would like to clarify a number of important points as follows:

1. It must be emphasized that there is a specific mechanism to choose the venues, the most important of which is their readiness to host matches and schedule of periodic maintenance approved and specified by the Ministry of Culture and Sports and Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, besides co-ordination with all relevant stakeholders. A meeting was held with club coaches, and their suggestions and observations were taken into consideration in decision-making.

2. Concerning and Al Janoub Stadium and Jassim bin Hamad Stadium… As everyone knows, these two stadiums hosted the last five rounds of 2019-20 season QNB Stars League (30 matches), which made it necessary for these venues to undergo regular maintenance. Regarding the Khalifa International Stadium… It is currently being prepared to host the AFC Champions League.

3. Regarding the Education City Stadium hosting the matches of Al Sadd and Al Duhail in the first rounds of QNB Stars League… This decision was taken after the AFC confirmed that Education City would be among the stadiums hosting the AFC Champions League.

4. With regard to not holding more than one match a day at the Education City Stadium… It is difficult at present as the stadium will soon host a number of AFC Champions League matches.

5. Regarding the start of 2020-21 season, and some enquiries about it like ‘Why didn’t the QSL wait until after the end of AFC Champions League’?... It may be noted that the calendar for this season is hectic due to the large number of events, tournaments and various participations, be it for clubs or national teams, as it has been taken into account after studying and discussing all perceptions, options and proposals with the relevant authorities and partners.

The QSL affirms that it considers all clubs as equal. The relationship is reiterated by a close bond of values, solid foundation and firm principles that uphold equality, justice and mutual respect, especially since clubs are partners of success.

We would also like to reiterate our appreciation and respect for all opinions that came forward, and enquiries and questions which appeared on various media and social media platforms, for the benefit of Qatar football.