publish time

16/12/2020

author name Arab Times

publish time

16/12/2020

MUSCAT, Oman, Dec 16, (AP): The 2030 Asian Games were awarded to Doha on Wednesday and the 2034 event went to Riyadh after a deal was struck between the rival nations. The Qatari capital of Doha beat Saudi Arabian counterpart Riyadh for the 2030 Games in the vote at the Olympic Council of Asia’s general assembly.

The OCA reached a deal to vote on the 2030 host but to give the other candidate the 2034 event. Qatari bid officials wore masks and waved flags as they celebrated together. Vote totals were not immediately announced. Qatar will also host the 2022 World Cup. The vote on Wednesday was repeatedly delayed by problems with the electronic voting system with many delegates taking part remotely amid the coronavirus pandemic. In the hall, 26 delegates were given paper ballots and 19 voted remotely.