The Sangam World Cup, a notable sporting event organized by the Then India Sanmarga Ikya (TISI) Sangam Fiji, is poised to create history as it is set to be held in Lautoka for the first time. This marks a significant milestone not only for TISI but also for the sporting landscape in Fiji. Chairperson Upendra Gounder has confirmed that preparations are well underway, with the final coordination meeting conducted with the 22 participating soccer teams, who are enthusiastic and ready for the tournament, which kicks off on Thursday.
This year’s Sangam World Cup holds special significance as it is part of the festivities leading up to TISI Sangam Fiji’s centennial anniversary, set for April next year. Following an 11-year gap since the last tournament in 2014, which was hosted across countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, this edition in Fiji aims to set a new standard for the event within the region.
Gounder emphasized that numerous initiatives planned for this year’s tournament will not only be transformative for Fiji but may also inspire neighboring regions. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to all team managers, executives, and players whose hard work and commitment have made this significant occasion possible.
The tournament will feature competitions across three divisions: Premier, Masters, and Legends, showcasing a diverse array of both local and international teams. Alongside the soccer matches, events in netball, golf, and snooker will be organized at various venues in Lautoka and the nearby area of Nadi, ensuring a wide array of sporting activities for fans and participants.
In the spirit of unity and celebration, the Sangam World Cup serves as a unique platform to connect communities and honor cultural heritage through sports. As the excitement builds, players and fans alike are filled with hopeful anticipation for a series of memorable matches that reflect the rich sporting spirit and community connections in Fiji. With all preparations in place for a grand showcase of athleticism and camaraderie, the upcoming Sangam World Cup is certainly set to be an unforgettable event.