Qatar's New Handball Coach Vujovic is Eager to Reach New Heights

Qatar New Handball Coach Vujovic is Eager to Reach New Heights

Veselin Vujovic has taken over as the head coach of Qatar's national handball team, succeeding Spaniard Valero Rivera, who stepped down after 11 years. Vujovic, who previously coached Qatari club Al Sadd, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Upon his unveiling, Vujovic expressed his eagerness to elevate Al Annabi to new heights, acknowledging the challenges ahead.

Presented at the Handball Association’s Headquarters in Doha, Vujovic addressed the media, emphasizing his commitment to preparing the team for major tournaments. He agreed to take on the role after discussions with Qatar Handball Association President Ahmed Al Shaabi in Belgrade.

At 63, Vujovic is expected to use his extensive coaching experience and past successes as a player to guide Qatar onto the world stage, with a focus on the upcoming World Championship. While Qatar's handball team has dominated the Asian Championship, winning it for the sixth consecutive time in January, their success has not fully translated to the global stage. They narrowly missed qualifying for the 2024 Olympics after a close loss to Bahrain.

Vujovic plans to scout talent from Qatar’s domestic league to strengthen the national team as they prepare for the 2025 World Championship. Qatar is set to compete against France, Australia, and Kuwait in the tournament, which will take place in Croatia, Denmark, and Norway from January 14 to February 5, 2025.

Vujovic's coaching career includes leading Slovenia to a bronze medal in 2017 and winning multiple trophies with Spanish club Ciudad Real. He also enjoyed success with clubs like Macedonia’s Vardar and Croatia’s RK Zagreb. His time at Al Sadd in 2010 saw the club win the First Division title and the Crown Prince Cup. As a player, Vujovic won Olympic gold in 1984 and a World Championship title in 1986.