Sri Lankan Football Community in Qatar

Qatar is home to one of the largest Sri Lankan expatriate communities in the world. In 2022, Qatar hosted the FIFA World Cup, one of the biggest global sporting events. Beyond being a hub for work, Qatar also offers numerous opportunities for athletes.

If you’re a football fan or an ex-player visiting Qatar, you’ll find many top-tier Sri Lankan footballers who have moved here, sacrificing their football careers to support their families. These players, once prominent figures in Sri Lankan football, are now putting their efforts into earning money to look after their loved ones.

The Journey to Qatar

Many Sri Lankan footballers moved to Qatar seeking better financial opportunities. Playing football in Sri Lanka often left players financially strained, leading many to seek a better life abroad. Despite the challenges, these ballers have found ways to stay connected to the game they love.

Early Days of Community Football

Between 2005 and 2010, many Sri Lankan players who migrated to Qatar began playing football at public grounds. Initially, they formed teams with a limited number of players, including some who had never played in Sri Lanka’s top leagues. This grassroots movement laid the foundation for the vibrant football community we see today.

Emergence of Organized Tournaments

The Zahira College Old Boys Association (OBA) in Qatar organized the first-ever tournament for school teams in 2009. This pioneering effort set the stage for organized football within the Sri Lankan community in Qatar, fostering a spirit of competition and camaraderie among the expatriates. Initially, school tournaments were the primary events. By late 2016 and early 2017, organized tournaments started to take place in Qatar, giving these teams a new sense of purpose and competition. However, from early 2018, open tournaments began to be organized, allowing a broader range of teams to participate and compete.

Sri Lankan Football in Qatar: A Vibrant Community

Including a thriving football community. Among this community are former national players, captains, strikers, defenders, and coaches who have moved to Qatar for better opportunities while continuing their passion for football. In addition to these seasoned veterans, many young players who have played in Sri Lanka’s top tiers are now part of the football landscape in Sri Lankan community in Qatar. These players bring fresh energy and talent, ensuring the community remains dynamic and competitive.

A Growing Community of Teams

The Sri Lankan football community in Qatar has seen significant growth and development over the years. Initially, teams like Maroons FC, Everocks FC, Blaze of Blues, ZOBAQ (Colombo Zahira), Gampola Zahira, Fantastic FC, Puttalum Zahira and Victory FC were among the first to form clubs. These teams laid the foundation for a vibrant football culture within the expatriate community.

Veteran Teams Shine

Apart from the elite teams, veteran teams have played a significant role in the league’s development. Teams like Fantastic FC, Matrix FC, Mawanella United, Black Square and QKFC have not only competed fiercely but have also set high standards for sportsmanship and skill. Their participation has inspired many and added a rich layer of history and experience to the league. Veteran squads have become increasingly competitive, with more than 8-10 veteran teams vying for glory within the Sri Lankan community in Qatar. These seasoned players bring a wealth of experience and skill, making the matches both thrilling and highly competitive.

The veteran teams, composed of former national players, captains, and top-tier ballers from Sri Lanka, are now a formidable force in the local football scene. Their dedication to the sport and deep understanding of the game have elevated the level of competition, drawing significant attention and admiration from the community.
A few months ago, the Sri Lankan veteran team, Kotahena Veterans, toured Qatar and showcased some eye-catching football. This tour highlighted the exceptional talent and enduring passion of these experienced players. Notable performances came from stars like Channa, Mohamed Azmeer, and Serons, who displayed their skills in both tournament and friendly matches.
The success and enthusiasm of veteran teams have had a positive impact on the broader Sri Lankan football community in Qatar. Their participation inspires younger players and reinforces the importance of maintaining fitness and competitive spirit, regardless of age.

Balancing Work and Play

The football culture in Qatar is markedly different from that in Sri Lanka. Most of these players juggle demanding jobs during the day to support their families, dedicating their evenings to practice or matches. This dedication highlights their commitment and love for the sport, even when faced with the challenges of expatriate life.

The Cost of Playing Football in Qatar

Unlike cricket, which can be played in many places in Qatar at no cost, football tends to be more expensive. Facilities for 5-a-side, 7-a-side, 9-a-side, or 11-a-side matches are available, but the costs can be significantly higher than in Sri Lanka. For instance, renting a 5-a-side ground can cost around 150 Qatari Riyals per hour, roughly equivalent to 15,000 Sri Lankan Rupees.

Sustaining the Football Spirit
Despite these financial hurdles, the Sri Lankan football community in Qatar remains active and vibrant. They organize regular matches and participate in various tournaments, fostering a sense of camaraderie and keeping their football dreams alive.

Showcasing Skills on a Bigger Stage
The Qatar Football Association organizes community tournaments involving expatriate teams from various countries, including India, Nepal, Lebanon, Japan, Malaysia, Palestine, Jordan, and Bangladesh. These tournaments provide a platform for Sri Lankan players to showcase their skills. Sri Lankan teams have demonstrated high-quality football, achieving notable victories against teams from Japan, Malaysia, and other nations.

The Sri Lankan football community in Qatar exemplifies resilience and passion. Whether they are former stars or young talents, these players continue to inspire and support each other, preserving their love for football while adapting to their new lives abroad. Through their dedication and hard work, they not only sustain the sport but also build a strong, supportive community away from home.

by MRM Farhan