Doha:Qatar's Mubarak Al Khayarin has been elected as the President of the World Confederation of Billiards Sports (WCBS) by acclamation for a four-year term from 2026 to 2030. The election took place during the General Assembly meeting in Doha, attended by Assembly members, officials, and prominent figures in the billiards and snooker community.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al Khayarin's election signifies the growing prominence of Qatari talent in international sports and the trust placed in his leadership abilities. His administrative expertise and long-standing commitment to billiards and snooker have been recognized as instrumental in raising their profile and strengthening their organizational and competitive structures.
The meeting also saw the formation of a new Board of Directors to guide the Confederation in the upcoming term. Al Khayarin will lead as president, with Egypt's Farouk El Barki and Guatemala's Fernanda Rivera serving as vice-presidents. This diverse leadership team aims to develop billiards, snooker, and carom, expanding their reach on both continental and global levels. The Board has set an agenda that includes forming working committees, setting priorities for the new term, and approving international tournament calendars for 2027, 2028, and 2029.
Al Khayarin's role extends beyond administration, focusing on a clear vision for developing the Confederation's three disciplines. Recognized by the International Olympic Committee, the WCBS aims to broaden participation and support the global growth of these sports.
In his press statement, Al Khayarin expressed gratitude to the General Assembly members for their confidence, describing his election as an honor and significant responsibility. He emphasized the necessity for sustained commitment and teamwork to fulfill member federations' ambitions.
Al Khayarin has identified the relocation of the world billiards headquarters from Switzerland to Doha as a priority to bolster Qatar's status as an international hub for the sport. Additionally, he aims to secure the inclusion of cue sports in the Olympic Games, beginning with the 2036 Games.
Mohammed Al Ramzani, President of the Qatar Billiards and Snooker Federation, congratulated Al Khayarin, highlighting his significant contributions to the development of billiards and snooker. Al Ramzani assured continued support from the Federation, pledging resources and expertise to help Al Khayarin achieve his goals.