The superstar players of Paris Saint-Germain ended 2017 with a stunning world first – a game on a floating football pitch during the club’s Qatar Winter Tour 2017 this week. The friendly game saw players including Neymar Jr, Kylian Mbappe, Edinson Cavani and Thiago Silva, playing atop the pitch on the stunning waters of the Arabian Gulf against the dramatic backdrop of Doha’s glittering skyline.
In addition to recording a world’s first, the team also met with thousands of Qatari football fans and indulged in cultural activities organised by the Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA). The team’s packed itinerary included a trip to the magnificent Qatari sand dunes of the Inland Sea for players Adrien Rabiot, Layvin Kurzawa and Marco Verratti, and a taste of Arabian hospitality at a traditional campsite.
Back in Doha, Julian Draxler, Thomas Meunier and Presnel Kimpembe learned about Qatar’s culture and history with a visit to the Msheireb Museums, while Dani Alves, Thiago Motta and Kevin Trapp were treated to a traditional Qatari meal on the rooftop of the Shangri-La Hotel, where they had a stunning view of the iconic Doha Corniche.
To connect with their fans – young and old - several players took part in a public signing session as well as a training clinic led by coach Unai Emery. In addition, Paris Saint-Germain FIFA Qatari player Aameghessib and France’s Mannika took part in an esports tournament showcasing top Qatari talent, before taking on several Paris Saint-Germain football players.
Since 2012, QTA and Paris Saint-Germain have worked on a strategic partnership to promote Qatar’s sport and leisure tourism offerings. QTA has hosted several tours for Paris Saint-Germain teams, including the Qatar Handball Tour 2014 and the Qatar Ladies Tour 2015 and the Qatar Winter Tours in 2013 and 2015.
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