Falgunanda Gold Cup, which will kick off in the first week of next month, has seen a significant boost in its prize money. The 11th edition of the tournament, scheduled to begin in 2021, marks the return of the event after a hiatus of six years.

First held in 2065 BS, the Gold Cup continued until 2075 BS, and now, in 2081, organizers have announced that the winner will receive a grand total of 1 million rupees, more than double the amount awarded during the previous edition. The runner-up will take home 500,000 rupees.

For context, the winner of the 10th edition, held in 2075 BS, was awarded 444,444 rupees. That edition saw Jhapa 11 FC emerge as champions, but the upcoming tournament promises to offer a much more lucrative prize pool.

Dipendra Thapa Magar, the president of the organizing body, Phidim Sporting Club, confirmed that the winning team will also be presented with a trophy along with the cash prize. The competition will feature a mix of established clubs and promising teams, including Biratnagar City FC, which competed in the Nepal Sports League (NSL), New Road Team (NRT), Machhindra, Church Boys, Tribhuvan Army Football Club, and newcomers Chitlang Football Club, who will be making their debut at the Gold Cup.

In addition to the host team, Phidim Sporting Club, other participants will include Siraha's Salhesh FC, New Star Club Sunsari, and Jhapa Football Club.

Chairman Thapa shared that the tournament is expected to cost around 9 million rupees, highlighting the scale of the competition. Beyond the top cash prizes, several individual accolades will be awarded, including:

• Best Player of the Tournament: An electric vehicle (EV) scooter.
• Man of the Match: A cash prize of 10,000 rupees for each game.
• Highest Goal Scorer: 15,000 rupees in cash.
• Best Defender, Coach, Forward, Midfielder, Goalkeeper, and Emerging Player: 10,000 rupees each.