Sangam World Cup board chairperson Upendra Gounder says this year’s tournament will bring several firsts for Fiji, setting a new benchmark for how the event is hosted in the region.
He said preparations have been progressing well, with the final meeting held with the 22 soccer teams confirmed to compete. The Sangam World Cup, organised by Then India Sanmarga Ikya (TISI) Sangam Fiji, will kickoff on Thursday in Lautoka.
“There are some things at the Sangam World Cup that will be a first for Fiji and maybe for the region too,” Gounder said.
This year marks the first time Fiji will host the Sangam World Cup, returning after an 11-year lapse. The tournament is part of Sangam Fiji’s Road to 100 Years celebration ahead of the organisation’s centennial anniversary in April next year.
Previously hosted by Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, the last World Cup was held in 2014.
Gounder said the board has worked tirelessly to ensure a successful event and acknowledged the support of team officials and players who have committed to the tournament.
“We thank all the team managers, team executives, players who have taken out their time to be a part of this Road to 100 Years event,” said Gounder.
The soccer competition will feature Premier (10 teams), Masters (8 teams) and Legends (4 teams) divisions, while netball, golf, and snooker will also be contested across various venues in Lautoka and Nadi.
Lesari Qalica while training with the Lautoka Sangam Team in Lautoka. Picture: BALJEET SINGH
Prashant Kumar while training with the Lautoka Sangam Team in Lautoka. Picture: BALJEET SINGH
