Lebanon Crowned Arab Champion in Ice Hockey

The Lebanese national team was crowned the Arab Cup champion in ice hockey, which was hosted by Kuwait from May 7 to 13, by defeating the host Kuwaiti team 9-4 in the final match held on Saturday evening. Eight teams participated in the tournament, divided into two groups; the first group included Kuwait, Tunisia, Algeria, and Bahrain, while the second group consisted of Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Oman. The Lebanese team excelled against its rivals, winning against Saudi Arabia 7-1, Egypt 7-0, and Oman 15-5, which allowed them to top their group and reach the semifinals. They faced Bahrain and won 8-1 before defeating Kuwait in the final. The team includes players from countries of the diaspora, including 16 from Canada, and received support from members of the Lebanese community in Kuwait. The Minister of Youth and Sports in the caretaker government, George Kallas, contacted the President of the Lebanese Ice Hockey Federation, Charles Mire, to congratulate him on the team's victory in the Arab championship. Kallas praised the "professional atmosphere reflected by the team in terms of appearance, performance, and victories," noting the support from the Lebanese audience "which made the players feel at home," and commended the efforts exerted by the federation. He also congratulated "Kuwait for the excellent organization and hosting."