Photo: BSS

GAZIPUR, June 20, 2026 (BSS) - The "Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman Gold Cup Football Tournament 2026" began in Gazipur today with a colourful opening ceremony and the participation of 16 teams under the slogan, "Say No to Drugs, Build a Better Life through Sports."

The inaugural ceremony of the tournament was held this afternoon at Shaheed Barkat Stadium in the district under the management of the Gazipur District Football Association.

Sixteen teams from different parts of the country are participating, generating considerable enthusiasm among local sports fans.

Deputy Commissioner and President of the District Sports Association Md Nurul Karim Bhuiyan presided over the event. Member of Parliament for Gazipur-2 constituency M Manjurul Karim Roni attended as the chief guest.

Speaking at the event, conducted by Convener of the Tournament Organising Committee Hannan Mia Hannu, the chief guest said sports are not merely a source of entertainment but one of the principal tools for building a healthy, drug-free and disciplined society.

He expressed hope that such initiatives would play an important role in encouraging greater participation of the younger generation in sports.

Administrator of Gazipur City Corporation Md Shawkat Hossain Sarkar formally inaugurated the tournament.

Convener of the Tournament Organising Committee Hannan Mia Hannu conducted the event. 

Among others, Member Secretary of the Tournament Organising Committee Md Abdur Rouf Babul, BNP leader AKM Mofazzal Hossain, Advocate Abdus Salam, Advocate Mehedi Hasan Elis, Abdur Rahim Kala, Hasan Azmal Bhuiyan, VP Zainal Abedin Talukdar and Hasibur Rahman Munna were present at the ceremony.

In the opening match, the country's renowned sports education institution BKSP made an impressive start by defeating Shaikh Sports of Dinajpur 3-0.