By Bootballer Desk • Off-Field • Feb 15, 2025 15:12 PM • 575 views
Kakarbhitta, Falgun 3—The fifth edition of the Mechinagar Gold Cup logo was officially unveiled today, marking the countdown to the prestigious tournament, which will begin on Falgun 21st. The logo, featuring an elephant mascot, was presented by Mechinagar Mayor Gopal Chandra Budhathoki during a ceremony at the Drinking Water users' and sanitary organization's meeting hall in Kakarbhitta.
Shri Prasad Mainali, the tournament's organizing committee coordinator, chaired the event figures in attendance, including Bimal Acharya, the organizing committee's co-coordinator and financial committee head; Gangalal Gurung, the committee's treasurer, and Bhagirath Ale, the Jhapa District Football Association president. They provided updates on the tournament's preparations.
Financial Planning and Sponsorships
According to financial committee coordinator Bimal Acharya, an estimated Rs 8 million will be required to successfully host the tournament, which will run until Falgun 28th. Mayor Budhathoki revealed that the organizing committee has requested Rs 2.5 million in funding from Mechinagar Municipality, and the local government accepts it as per the source.
Treasurer Gurung shared details on fundraising efforts, stating that Rs 10,000 has been set as the fee for becoming a life member of the Gold Cup. So far, 321 individuals have expressed interest, with some already securing membership. The committee has secured Rs 1.5 million from the tournament's main sponsor and Rs 300,000 from multiple co-sponsors.
Concerns Over Tournament Quality
Jhapa District Football Association President Bhagirath Ale raised concerns over the increasing number of football tournaments being organized across the region. He cautioned that having the same teams in multiple tournaments could affect the competitive quality of the event. Ale also suggested moving the Mechinagar Gold Cup to Baisakh for better scheduling. 
The event, hosted by Kakarbhitta Training Center President Nawaraj Oli, confirmed that the tournament will feature eight teams from Nepal and India. Organizing committee Secretary Raju Karki conducted the official program.
With just weeks before kickoff, anticipation is building for one of the region's most awaited football tournaments.
