Ahmad Kabakibi: Transforming Youth Sports in the Middle East through Delta Allied Sports

Ahmad Kabakibi’s journey from a sports enthusiast in Beirut to the founder of Delta Group ME is a testament to resilience, passion, and transformative vision. His story underscores the challenges he has overcome and highlights his significant contributions to youth sports in the Middle East.

Growing up in Beirut, Lebanon, Ahmad Kabakibi was passionate about sports. His early experiences in high school, excelling in football and basketball, fostered his confidence and work ethic. “Sports made me who I am today,” Kabakibi reflects. “The commitment, respect, and mindset I developed through athletics have been fundamental to my growth.”

Lebanon’s diverse environment fostered his aspirations and instilled values that would guide his future.

Despite his passion, Kabakibi faced challenges pursuing a career in sports. In his community, the sports business was often undervalued. “Proving people wrong was a major motivator,” he says. “It took sleepless nights and relentless perseverance to change perceptions and achieve success.”

Initially, Kabakibi pursued a career in banking. However, the financial crisis in Lebanon and the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a reevaluation. In 2021, he transitioned full-time into his true passion—sports—by focusing on Delta Allied Sports.

Delta Allied Sports: A Leap of Faith

Founded in 2015, Delta Allied Sports began as a side project. The collapse of the banking sector catalysed Ahmad Kabakibi’s full-time commitment. “Leaving banking was a significant leap of faith,” he notes. “But it was the right decision. Delta Allied Sports allowed me to immerse myself in what I love and drive meaningful change.”

Delta Allied Sports quickly gained recognition with its Middle East youth sports series, now the largest series of youth football in the region, boasting over 25,000 young athletes. “Inspiring the next generation and turning passion into success has been incredibly rewarding,” Kabakibi says.

One of Kabakibi’s latest projects coming up, as he reveals, is CSI, an initiative aimed at increasing sports participation in the UAE. This project aligns with Delta Allied Sports’ mission to foster community development through sports. “CSI is about encouraging more people to engage in physical activity,” Kabakibi explains.

Defining Success

For Kabakibi, success is an evolving concept. “Success is like a mosaic,” he says. “It’s about collecting pieces over time.” His current focus is on expanding Delta Group ME. The nomination for FIFA – Asia’s best youth sports event 2024 is a testament to the company’s impact.

Inspirations and Motivations

The dedication and perseverance of his father, Walid, have greatly influenced Kabakibi. Additionally, he values the proverb he wrote on his wall at 18: “The more you sweat in peace-time, the less you bleed during war.” This mindset has helped him navigate challenges.

Kabakibi acknowledges the role of setbacks in his journey. A notable failure was a $50,000 Forex investment loss in 2016. “That experience taught me that there is no Plan B—I am Plans A, B, and C,” he recalls. “It reinforced the importance of hard work and resilience.”

Legacy and Future Aspirations

Kabakibi hopes to be remembered for his contributions to the sports industry, particularly for providing exceptional sports experiences for youth. “We want to be known for our dedication to improving sports opportunities in the region,” he says.

Ahmad Kabakibi’s journey with Delta Group ME exemplifies the power of perseverance and passion. His story highlights his achievements and serves as an inspiration. As Ahmad Kabakibi continues to forge ahead with Delta Group ME, his vision remains clear: to create a lasting impact on the sports landscape of the Middle East. His commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting active lifestyles reflects a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of sports. Through initiatives like CSI and the expansion of Delta Allied Sports, Kabakibi aims to inspire future generations and elevate the region’s sports culture. His journey, marked by resilience and innovation, not only exemplifies personal growth but also paves the way for a brighter future for youth sports in the Middle East.