J&K Hosts First-Ever Franchise Football League, Athletes Bag Lakhs In Auction

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Last Updated:June 27, 2025, 22:02 IST

The Kashmir Super League is all set to begin in the first week of July, writing a new chapter in the history of the region as the Union Territory gets first such tournament.

Jammu and Kashmir gets its first-ever corporate franchise-based football tournament (PTI Image)

In a historic first in Jammu and Kashmir, the region’s first-ever corporate franchise-based football tournament was inaugurated on Friday, writing a new chapter in the sporting history of the Union Territory.

Secretary of the J&K Sports Council, Nuzhat Gul, officially inaugurated the player bidding ceremony of the Kashmir Super League (KSL) at an event in Srinagar.

Organised in collaboration with the J&K Sports Council, the Kashmir Super League represents a bold leap forward for grassroots football in the Union Territory.

The league aims to usher in a new era of structured, opportunity-driven sport in the Valley by connecting emerging talent with professionally managed, corporate-backed teams.

“Kashmir Super League is not just a tournament," said Nuzhat Gul. “It’s a transformative movement. By bringing corporates, youth, and sport together, we’re building a sustainable ecosystem, bold, organised, and full of opportunity for the next generation."

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from all six franchise owners, corporate sponsors, and football supporters from across the Valley, a testament to the growing excitement and ownership around the sport.

Financial Empowerment Of Athletes

One of the most defining features of this league is the direct financial empowerment of athletes. With bidding amounts ranging from thousands to lakhs, young footballers are receiving payments directly from the corporate franchises, an unprecedented model in the region. For many, this is the first time their sporting talent is being rewarded not just with recognition, but with real, life-changing value.

In homes across Kashmir, these young athletes are now being seen not only as players but as professionals, breadwinners, and local heroes, igniting dreams in their communities and inspiring the next generation.

The player auction marks a pivotal moment in the KSL journey, one that goes beyond contracts and matchdays. It signals a shift towards professionalism, structure, and sustainable sporting careers in a region where raw talent has often outpaced opportunity.

With 19 high-voltage matches set to unfold at TRC Ground Srinagar starting from the first week of July, the Kashmir Super League promises not only thrilling football but also a renewed spirit of sporting excellence powered by passion, equity, and a shared vision for the future.