Al Shaari and Al Hammadi lead national squad to podium success in Libya event

The UAE Youth Muay Thai Team secured 11 medals at the 2026 Arab Muay Thai Youth Championship in Libya, returning to Abu Dhabi on Saturday, 29 August with two gold, six silver, and three bronze medals. The national squad competed across age divisions ranging from 10 to 17 years. Top Podium Finishes Mohammed Al Shaari led the national performance by winning gold in the 16–17 years (67 kg) category. He was joined on the top step by Aziz Al Hammadi, who claimed gold in the 14–15 years (60 kg) division. The two gold medals anchor a successful campaign that saw the UAE reach the finals in eight different weight classes. Silver medals were awarded to Faisal Shehab, Youssef Abu Maali, Zayed Al Marzouqi, Ahmed Abu Jaish, Rakan Ahmed, and Ammar Abu Jaish. The team’s medal tally was rounded out with three bronze finishes by Mohammed Bilal, Saeed Amer, and Mohammed Abu Maali in their respective age and weight categories. Strategic Development for Youth Sports The UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation attributed the results to sustained preparation programmes targeted at junior weight categories. Ali Khouri, Board Member of the Federation, stated that the results in Libya demonstrate the efficacy of development tracks designed for athletes under the age of 18. The announcement follows the conclusion of the continental event on Friday, 28 August, where the Arab Muay Thai Federation, led by Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi, hosted teams from across the region to foster young talent. The…