Samqa Qualifies for Paris Grand Prix

It is a historic first for the Kingdom — and a moment that signals how far Bahrain's para taekwondo programme has come.

A Stage Reserved for the World's Best

The Grand Prix series sits among the highest-ranked events on the World Taekwondo calendar. Qualification is not open to all — only athletes holding top positions in the world rankings and meeting strict criteria earn a place on the start list.

Samqa met every standard.

National taekwondo coach Tawfiq Nwaiser called the selection a landmark for Bahrain, saying it reflects the real progress made by the Kingdom's para taekwondo programme in recent years.

Para taekwondo coach Fajr Al Binali echoed that view, pointing to a series of strong international performances that steadily built Samqa's standing among the world's elite in his weight category.

More Than a Competition

For Samqa, Paris is not just a destination — it is an opportunity.

Al Binali said competing at Grand Prix level will sharpen his international ranking, test him against the very best, and strengthen his preparation for the major competitions ahead.

The achievement also carries wider significance. The Bahrain Paralympic Committee has made developing athletes capable of competing at the highest global level a central part of its strategy — and Samqa's qualification is evidence that the approach is working.

Bahrain's flag has been raised on many sporting stages. In Paris, it will fly in para sport for the first time at this level.