Gaza City – A Ramadan football tournament for veteran players has commenced in the Gaza Strip, offering a rare moment of respite and a symbol of resilience for a population grappling with ongoing hardship. The tournament, which began on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Nuseirat Services Club hall, is being sponsored by the UAE’s “Operation Faris Al-Shahm 3” (Knightly Charger 3) initiative.
The launch of the “Gaza Ramadan Football Tournament for Veteran Players” represents more than just a sporting event; it’s a powerful statement of Palestinian determination to reclaim normalcy and resist the silence imposed on the region’s sporting life. The initiative aims to support Palestinian sports and encourage football activities during the holy month of Ramadan, bringing together former players in a spirit of competition and camaraderie.
The opening ceremony drew a large crowd of spectators and prominent sports and official figures, demonstrating the enduring passion for football within the Palestinian community despite significant challenges. The head of the Emirati delegation extended greetings to the people of Gaza on the occasion of Ramadan, officially inaugurating the tournament and emphasizing the values inherent in sports – cooperation, discipline, teamwork, and fair competition – values that are particularly resonant during the month of Ramadan.
Operation Faris Al-Shahm 3 is providing logistical support to the participating clubs, players, referees, and the organizing committee. Prizes totaling 30,000 shekels will be awarded to the top four teams: 10,000 shekels for first place, 8,000 shekels for second, 6,000 shekels for third, and 4,000 shekels for fourth. Additional awards will be given to the top scorer, best player, best goalkeeper, and best referee.
The tournament features 20 teams from various governorates within the Gaza Strip, ensuring broad representation and fostering healthy competition. The draw has divided the teams into five groups, with the top teams from each group, along with the best second-place team, advancing to the next stage. Two additional teams will qualify based on criteria determined by the organizing committee. Group One includes teams such as Shabab Rafah, Ittihad Deir Al-Balah, Sports Journalists, and Nuseirat Services.
The opening match saw a contest between Shabab Rafah and Khidmat Al-Nuseirat, drawing enthusiastic support from football fans across the sector, according to Al-Kofiya TV. Further details on the results of this match, and the tournament as a whole, are expected to be released as the competition progresses.
This tournament arrives at a critical time for Gaza, offering a much-needed boost to morale and a sense of community. The initiative underscores the importance of sports as a vehicle for hope and resilience in the face of adversity. The Palestinian Football Association, in collaboration with Operation Faris Al-Shahm 3, hopes this event will inspire further investment in sports infrastructure and development within the region.
As the tournament unfolds, it will be important to observe the level of participation, the quality of play, and the overall impact on the local community. The success of this event could pave the way for future sporting initiatives aimed at promoting peace, unity, and well-being in Gaza.
Share your thoughts on this inspiring event in the comments below, and help spread the word about the resilience of the Palestinian people.
