KUWAIT, Dec 12 (KUNA) -- Zain Group hosted the original trophy and match ball of the Gulf Cup, Khaleeji Zain 26, in the presence of President of the Kuwait Football Association Sheikh Ahmad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah, becoming the first stop in the trophy's promotional tour in Kuwait ahead of the tournament's official kickoff on December 21.
In a press release on Thursday, Zain announced that the tour includes multiple stops, such as Kuwait International Airport, sponsoring companies' offices, The Walk Mall in Ardiya on Friday from 5 PM to 10 PM, and the Zain fan zone in Murouj on December 19, where the trophy and ball will also be featured.
The trophy, now in its sixth edition and first introduced by Qatar in 2004, making it the country with the most Gulf Cup designs (three), is shaped like an incense burner topped with a pearl, featuring Arabian headwear wrapped around and a carved map of the Arabian Gulf symbolizing regional unity.
The current trophy was crafted by Bertoni, the renowned Italian manufacturer of the FIFA World Cup trophy. Made of pure gold, it stands 47 centimeters tall.
Zain recently announced its official partnership with the Gulf Cup for the second consecutive time, with the tournament branded as "Khaleeji Zain 26," while Kuwait hosts this historic sporting event for the fifth time in its history.
Zain's partnership reflects its commitment to supporting major sports events and enhancing Kuwait's regional sports stature.
The event was attended by Zain Group Chairman Osamah Al-Furaih, Vice Chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Bader Al-Kharafi, and other board members and executives.
fh.lf.lr