RIYADH: The third edition of FIFA Forward Program was launched on Thursday in Riyadh and will continue until April 30, Saudi Press Agency reported.
Among the attendees of the launch ceremony were FIFA chief member associations officer, Kenny Jean-Marie, director of Member Associations Asia and Oceania, Sanjeevan C. Balasingam, FIFA director of the regional office in the Middle East, Issam Alsuhaibani, and representatives of the participating federations.
Secretary-General of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), Ibrahim Alkassim, affirmed that the unlimited support that the football sector enjoys under the Kingdom's leadership.
He added that support, coupled with the continuous follow-up from the Ministry of Sports, has the most significant impact in making Saudi Arabia an ideal destination for many regional and international sporting events.
For his part, Jean-Marie praised the outstanding professionalism with which SAFF works and its optimal preparation for the meeting.
He stressed the importance of teamwork in developing the football system among the federations and the spread of its popularity and positive influence.
Third edition of FIFA Forward program kicks off in Riyadh
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Third edition of FIFA Forward program kicks off in Riyadh
- FIFA chief member associations officer Kenny Jean-Marie among attendees at launch ceremony
AlUla Trail Race 2026 opens for runner registration
- Open to beginners and experienced athletes worldwide
- Distances from 1.6km to 100km for children and adults
ALULA: Registration has now opened for the AlUla Trail Race to be held on Jan. 22 and 23 next year.
The contest offers local and international participants a selection of distances and challenges set against the dramatic landscapes and ancient heritage sites of AlUla, located in Madinah.
According to a Saudi Press Agency report on Wednesday, the race is open to beginners and experienced runners.
The series includes a Kids Run (1.6 km) for children aged 5 to 12, Sunset Run (3 km) for those 13 and above, and a 10 km and 23 km for more experienced participants.
There are also demanding 50 km and 100 km ultra trail races for the most resilient and skilled runners. All routes will end in Old Town, ensuring an exciting finish for both runners and spectators.
On the first day, runners will arrive to collect their race packs before taking part in the Kids Run and the Sunset Run. Race kits can be collected at the event village, which will be located at the amphitheater in Old Town.
Day two will host the competitive distances, beginning at sunrise with the 100 km, followed by the 50 km, 23 km, and 10 km. Medal ceremonies will take place throughout the day as runners cross the finish line.
The organizers said every participant will receive an official AlUla Trail Race 2026 pack, including a tote bag, buff, race T-shirt, timing chip, and bib number. Entry fees begin at SR100 ($26) and SR50 for children.
The contest is a part of the AlUla Moments 2025/26 calendar, a year-round schedule of events and festivals designed to promote the area as a premier destination for tourism, sports, culture, and heritage.
Other world-class sports events include the professional cycling AlUla Tour, AlUla Desert Polo, and the Al-Fursan Endurance AlUla — one of the most prestigious endurance races on the equestrian calendar.
