As the world celebrated the annual International Volunteer Day on 5 December, volunteers from the Intercontinental Cup (IC) in Qatar 2024 are eager to deliver another world-class tournament in Qatar following the 2022 World Cup.

Applications for volunteers were open to individuals with prior experience in Qatar 2022 or the AFC Asian Cup, emphasising the continuity of Qatar’s social legacy. The selected total of 450 volunteers are now ensuring the whole delivery of a world-class tournament by providing support across 17 functional areas including pre-tournament operations, fan assistance, media operations and accreditation. The volunteer programme reflects Qatar’s ongoing commitment to fostering community involvement and connection.

"I am a huge football fan,” said Sheikha Al Kuwari, a Qatari who works in the educational sector. “It’s part of who I am. Being part of major sports events in Qatar is such an inspiration. There’s nothing quite like helping fans enjoy the incredible atmosphere in our stadiums and seeing their excitement."

Al Kuwari highlighted her role in the event. “My role will be to assist with accreditation and uniform distribution, as well as guest services during matches. I can’t wait to see that electric vibe again - fans filling the arenas, their smiles, the energy. If you have the chance to volunteer, I encourage you to join. It’s an unforgettable experience," she added.

Qatar’s organisers believe the volunteer movement is built on a rich history of unity, diversity, and engagement through sport, believing the 2022 FIFA World Cup left an unparalleled social legacy, uniting thousands of volunteers from around the world, whose energy and commitment were instrumental in creating unforgettable experiences and setting new standards for global sporting events. 

"Volunteers are the foundation of every successful event in Qatar, embodying the spirit of teamwork and dedication that makes these moments extraordinary,” said Haya Al Noaimi, executive director of administration of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Qatar 2024 Local Organising Committee (LOC).

“Their role goes beyond just operations - they create connections, deliver exceptional hospitality, and ensure every fan and participant feels welcomed. As we continue to build on Qatar’s legacy of world-class events, the contribution of volunteers remains essential to creating unforgettable experiences for all."

Al Noaimi added, "With a strong volunteering legacy from past events like the FIFA World Cup 2022 and the AFC Asian Cup 2023, this movement continues to showcase the spirit of unity and shared purpose that defines Qatar. Volunteers will undoubtedly play a vital role in making the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Qatar 2024 a remarkable success."

The role of the FIFA IC Qatar 2024 volunteers is also to embody Qatar’s commitment to bringing people and communities together through football by getting involved in elevating the fan experience and adding another chapter to Qatar’s legacy as a global sports and events destination.

Samah Abuisneenah, a tournament volunteer, sees her participation in tournaments like the IC as a central part of life in Qatar. “The volunteer community in Qatar is something truly special  - it’s like a big movement. We’ve built strong personal connections, stay in touch through WhatsApp groups, and everyone is always ready to support.

“I started volunteering in 2018, and ever since, whenever there’s an event in Qatar, I make sure to apply. Helping people and giving back has always been part of my nature. That’s why volunteering inspires me so much,” added Abuisneenah.

With only a few days to go for the Intercontinental Cup to kick off, the tournament’s Local Organising Committee invited the public to view the tournament’s trophies in Doha this week. Fans wishing to view the trophies can visit Place Vendome Mall from 6-10 pm on 12 December, where they will be on display on the ground floor near Gate 1.

The tournament will see Botafogo of Brazil compete against Mexico’s Pachuca, the current CONCACAF champions, for the FIFA Derby of the Americas on 11 December. The winner will then face off against Ahly of Egypt on 14 December in Doha for the FIFA Challengers Cup. The game will determine the club that will contend with Real Madrid, reigning UEFA Champions League champions, for the FIFA Intercontinental Cup on 18 December and for the right to be crowned world champions.

Tickets are available online at FIC24.qa. Fans can purchase up to six tickets per person, with a variety of accessible options provided for disabled fans. Disabled fans interested in acquiring accessible seats are asked to email [email protected].  

With the countdown getting close for the Qatar 24 to kick-off, football fans are reminded by the organisers to purchase tickets only from the official ticketing platform. In addition, fans are encouraged to regularly check the official website and Resale Platform for additional tickets. Extra tickets are occasionally released up until match day, providing an opportunity to secure tickets for matches with limited availability.

* A version of this article appears in print in the 12 December, 2024 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly