Sixth All Pakistan Chief Minister Balochistan Gold Cup Football Tournament to Begin on July 26 with 90 Top Teams

QUETTA: The Sixth All Pakistan Chief Minister Balochistan Gold Cup Football Tournament will commence on July 26, bringing together 90 top football teams from across Pakistan, including Balochistan, in one of the country’s premier football events.

The grand final of the tournament will be played on August 10 at Ayub Stadium, Quetta. The opening match will feature Baloch Club Nushki against Afghan Club Chaman.

Addressing a joint press conference at Ayub Stadium, Adviser to the Chief Minister of Balochistan for Sports, Youth Affairs and Culture, Meena Majeed Baloch, accompanied by Sports Secretary Dura Baloch and Director General Sports Yasir Bazai, announced that the winning team will receive a cash prize of Rs3 million, while the runners-up will be awarded Rs1.5 million. The team securing third position will receive Rs500,000, along with trophies for all three top finishers.

Tournament matches will be held at four different venues in Quetta, where large crowds of football enthusiasts are expected to attend. Organizers have made comprehensive management and foolproof security arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the event.

Meena Majeed Baloch said the tournament will play an important role in projecting Balochistan’s soft image and promoting healthy and constructive activities among the youth of the province.

Speaking on the occasion, Sports Secretary Dura Baloch expressed deep sorrow over the killing of two young football players in Shamsabad, Mastung, on July 9. He said the government shares the grief of the bereaved families and described attacks on athletes as a tragedy for the entire sporting community.

“Sports teach brotherhood, tolerance, and mutual respect. Inviting teams from across the country reflects our commitment to promoting harmony and national unity among young people,” he said.

Dura Baloch further stated that Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti is committed to making the All Pakistan Football Gold Cup a permanent annual sporting event. He noted that this year’s tournament marks the sixth edition of the prestigious competition.

Highlighting Balochistan’s contribution to national football, he said the province’s players played a significant role in Pakistan’s recent football success after a gap of 24 years, adding that several national team players had previously showcased their talent in the Chief Minister’s Football Gold Cup.

“If this tournament continues consistently, it will further strengthen Pakistan’s national football team in the years to come,” he added.

The Sports Secretary also pointed out that footballers are now earning substantial sums through the sport, reflecting its growing popularity and professional opportunities. He said millions of rupees are being invested in talented players and encouraged young people to actively participate in sports and make the most of the opportunities available to them.

The tournament is expected to provide a major platform for emerging football talent while promoting peace, unity, and sporting excellence throughout the country.