The NFL is eyeing the possibility of bringing a regular-season game to the UAE, with Dubai or Abu Dhabi as potential host cities.

Peter O’Reilly, the league’s executive vice president, confirmed the interest during a press conference at the NFL owners’ meeting in Palm Beach, Florida, on Monday.

“We don’t know the timing, and it’s really an ‘if’ in terms of whether we’ll play a game there. What I will say is that’s a market where there’s strong interest in our game on a year-round basis, it’s a market we’ll continue to explore,” O’Reilly stated.

The league has already conducted exploratory visits to assess the feasibility of hosting a game in the UAE but emphasized that further evaluation is needed before making a decision.

As part of the NFL’s international expansion, games were held in Brazil, England, and Germany in 2024. These countries will remain on the schedule in 2025, along with Spain and Ireland. Additionally, Australia is set to host a game in 2026.

In a further move to strengthen its presence in the UAE, the NFL expanded its global markets program on Monday, granting the Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers, and Washington Commanders international marketing rights in the region.

If the plan materialises, it would mark a significant step for American football in the Middle East, tapping into a growing international fan base and boosting the sport’s global reach.

(Source: Reuters)

The UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia are preparing a joint bid to host the 2035 or 2039 Rugby World Cup, marking a major step in the region’s growing involvement in global sports. The president of Asia Rugby, Qais Al Dhalai, has confirmed the bid, which aims to bring the prestigious tournament back to Asia for the first time since Japan hosted it in 2019.

Asia Rugby has pledged its full support for the bid, emphasizing the Middle East’s potential as a premier host destination. The organisation has urged World Rugby to consider multi-nation bids, a model that has been successful in football, including the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

A Bold Vision for Rugby in the Gulf

“As our leaders in the Gulf believe, nothing is impossible,” Al Dhalai told The Times. “I foresee this as something that might happen in 2035. If World Rugby works hard on this with a solid plan, it is achievable.”

He highlighted the readiness of stadiums across the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia to host a world-class event, stressing that a multi-nation model could transform the Rugby World Cup just as it has for football.

To accommodate the region’s climate, the proposed tournament would take place in December and conclude in January, ensuring optimal conditions for players and fans. This timing would require adjustments to the global rugby calendar, particularly the Six Nations tournament, which traditionally starts in February.

Gulf Nations Poised to Boost Rugby’s Global Appeal

Al Dhalai, who also serves as president of the UAE Rugby Federation, expressed confidence that hosting the Rugby World Cup in the Middle East would unlock unprecedented commercial opportunities for the sport. He pointed to the strong financial backing available in the region, citing existing partnerships such as Emirates Airlines’ sponsorship of World Rugby and the Dubai Sevens, as well as Qatar Airways’ recent investment in the United Rugby Championship.

“The Gulf is home to major corporations and sovereign wealth funds that are eager to invest in global sports. Rugby is already benefiting from this, and a World Cup in the region would be a game-changer,” Al Dhalai said.

A Transformative Opportunity for Rugby

While rugby is still in its developmental phase in the Gulf, hosting a World Cup would significantly accelerate the sport’s growth. Asia Rugby remains convinced that the commercial appeal and fanbase across the wider Asian continent would ensure a successful tournament.

The bidding process for the 2035 Rugby World Cup is set to begin within the next two years, with competition from European nations like Italy and Spain. The UAE and its Gulf partners will be making a strong case, not just as hosts but as key players in rugby’s global expansion.

(Source: Times)

Sharjah is set to make waves as it hosts the Ocean Man Championship for the first time, bringing one of the world’s top open-water swimming competitions to Al Khan Beach on April 19-20. Organized by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB), the event promises an action-packed weekend for professional athletes, amateur swimmers, and water sports enthusiasts.

Participants of all skill levels will have the chance to test their endurance across various race categories. The 10-kilometer challenge is designed for elite swimmers, while the 5-kilometer race offers a demanding yet achievable distance for intermediate competitors. Those looking for a shorter but competitive swim can opt for the 2-kilometer race, while the 500-meter sprint welcomes families and young swimmers to join the excitement. Adding a team element, a 3×500 meter relay will bring groups together for a high-energy challenge.

Sharjah’s decision to host this championship underscores its commitment to promoting sports, healthy lifestyles, and international sporting events. The competition is expected to draw participants from across the UAE and beyond, transforming Al Khan Beach into a vibrant hub of activity.

Registration is now open for all race categories. Swimmers can sign up and find more details at https://oceanmanswim.com/.