Gangtok to host APFA Veterans Football Gold Cup 2025 starting June 15

The All Pala Football Association (APFA) is all set to host the second edition of its International Veterans Men’s Football Tournament in Gangtok, Sikkim starting from June 15 and running till June 30, 2025. This special tournament is exclusively for men above 40 years of age and is aimed at promoting better health and unity among the elderly through football.

At a press conference held ahead of the event, APFA President Tshering Yishe spoke to the media explaining the background and purpose of the tournament. He said the APFA was formed in 2023 by a small group of football lovers aged 40 and above. The word "Pala," meaning "father," reflects the association’s focus on veteran players, many of whom are grandfathers.

“This tournament is not just about football. It is about encouraging healthy living and celebrating the spirit of the elderly. It is also a way to bring joy and purpose to men who are still passionate about the game,” Yishe said. He also extended warm wishes to the people of Sikkim on the 50th anniversary of the state’s founding and congratulated everyone on the 90th birthday year of the Dalai Lama.

This year, 20 teams from across India and Nepal will take part in the tournament. Nepal, being an international team, will participate in the international category. The team from Orissa, last year’s champion, could not join this year due to new age rules. These new guidelines require players to be over 40. Teams must have 4 players aged 40–45, 6 players aged 46–55, and at least 1 player aged 55 or older on the field at any given time. Rolling substitutions are allowed to ensure all players get a chance to play without strain.

This year’s tournament also holds special meaning as it begins on June 15, which is International Father’s Day. “This tournament is a tribute to all fathers. Whether they are our fathers or we are fathers ourselves, this event is for us,” Yishe added.

Gangtok was chosen as the venue this year not only for its previous participation but also to mark the golden jubilee of Sikkim’s statehood. The decision was made following a request from local organizers who wanted to host the tournament as part of the state’s celebrations. Last year’s inaugural event was held in Dehradun.

So far, two teams from Gangtok; Gangtok Red and Gangtok Blue and one team from Ravangla, named Sikkim Red and Sikkim Blue, have confirmed participation. The entry fee for each team is Rs 20,000. The tournament format will be league-cum-knockout, allowing each team a fair number of matches before elimination rounds begin.

Currently, the APFA is focusing on involving the Tibetan community in India but hopes to expand its reach in the coming years. Yishe said that the association has plans to include more teams from other Indian states in future editions of the tournament.