Doha, May 11 (QNA) - FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 is just a link in the chain of major world sporting events that the State of Qatar intends to host in coming years, said Executive Director of the Planning and Implementation Department of the Local Organizing Committee for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023, Ali Al Mahmoud.

Speaking exclusively with Qatar News Agency (QNA) on Thursday, on the sidelines of the draw ceremony at the Katara Opera House, Al Mahmoud highlighted the LOC's huge aspirations and doubled efforts, promising of an outstand experience for fans and the participating teams.

This edition, the third to be staged by Doha, will reflect the experiences Qatar gained from hosting previous world tournaments, he said, wishing Qatar success in their campaign to defend their crown. He also voiced hopes the participating Arab sides would give overwhelming performances.

Director of LOC's Marketing and Communications Hassan Rabia Al Kuwari expressed his happiness with the appropriate manner in which the AFC Asian Cup 2023 draw ceremony came out as the initial step in the continental tournament ahead of the full announcement of the match schedule.

Qatar's campaign in the 18th edition to retain the title will be tough against many major Asian teams, Al Kuwari said. Both the players and fans will be under pressure of securing the second successive trophy, he said, arguing that the heavy support of Qatari fans is very likely to help the national team retain the title.

Director of Marketing and Communications at Qatar Football Association, Khaled Mubarak Al Kuwari stressed Qatar's readiness to give a perfect hosting of this edition, voicing hopes Qatar would win the title, especially in light of their strong pre-tournament preparations that include featuring in the Concacaf Gold Cup, as well as many trial matches. (QNA)