Official Sponsorship in Collaboration with the Lebanese University Sports Federation (FSUL) to Represent Lebanon at the FISU World University Futsal Championship
Beirut, Lebanon – 2026 – In the presence of H.E. Dr. Nora Bayrakdarian, Minister of Youth and Sports, and as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting Lebanese sports and empowering youth, Spinneys announced its official sponsorship of Lebanon’s men’s and women’s university futsal national teams, under the Lebanese University Sports Federation (FSUL), during a press conference held at its Antelias branch. The event was attended by a number of sports officials and media representatives.
The sponsorship comes as both teams prepare to compete in the International University Sports Federation (FISU) World University Futsal Championship. The Lebanese men’s team will make its first-ever appearance in the tournament, while the women’s team will participate for the second time, reflecting the continued growth of university sports in Lebanon and its increasing presence on the international stage.
On this occasion, Minister of Youth and Sports Dr. Nora Bayrakdarian welcomed the initiative, highlighting that it embodies core values championed by the Ministry and underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in supporting Lebanese sports, particularly university sports, which serve as a foundation for developing the next generation of athletes.
She stated: “The participation of our university national teams in the FISU World University Futsal Championship is an important milestone that showcases the talent and potential of Lebanese youth. It also reaffirms Lebanon’s ability to compete and maintain a strong presence in international sporting events despite the challenges we face.”
She added: “We look forward to seeing stronger partnerships between sports federations and the private sector that extend beyond competition and contribute to supporting youth programs and emerging athletes. Sport should remain a key contributor to the national development and recovery efforts that we all aspire to achieve.”
For his part, Mr. Ralph Kahi, Chief Marketing Officer of Gray Mackenzie Retail Group, said: “Young people are Lebanon’s future, and investing in their talent and potential is a fundamental pillar of our vision. Our support goes beyond sponsorship; it is a commitment to empowering youth and helping them realize their full capabilities. Our partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, led by Dr. Nora Bayrakdarian, whose efforts we greatly value across multiple fronts, is a testament to the importance of collaboration and investment in the future of sports in Lebanon. We are proud to support these athletes as they represent Lebanon on the international stage.”
Meanwhile, Mr. Ziad Saade, President of The Lebanese University Sports Federation, addressed the athletes, saying: “We will continue to do everything in our power to keep the Lebanese flag flying high and will never cease supporting our athletes as they pursue growth, development, and excellence.”
During the press conference, the sponsorship was officially announced, and participants highlighted the significance of Lebanon’s participation in the global championship, as well as the vital role university sports play in nurturing young talent and preparing a new generation of athletes capable of competing at the highest levels.
Speakers also emphasized the importance of collaboration between the private sector and educational and sports institutions in supporting Lebanese youth and creating opportunities that enable them to achieve sporting success and elevate Lebanon’s profile internationally.
This sponsorship reflects a shared vision between Spinneys and The Lebanese University Sports Federation (FSUL): supporting young talent, promoting the culture of university sports, and empowering Lebanese athletes to achieve success and excellence on the global stage. It also reinforces Spinneys’ commitment to accompanying these athletes on their journey toward achievement while representing Lebanon in the best possible way internationally.