The dates for the 24th edition of the Aha! Rara Pokhara Gold Cup Football Tournament have been officially set. Sahara Club Pokhara, a prominent football club in Mofasal, will host the tournament from January 22 to February 3, 2025 at Pokhara Stadium.
Recognized as one of the longest-running football tournament in Nepal, the Rara Gold Cup has become a staple in the country's sports calendar. Club General Secretary Ramji prasad Adhikari announced the schedule following recommendations from the Kaski District Football Association to the All Nepal Football Association.
In line with their mission to serve society through football, Sahara Club remains actively engaged in community service. The club runs the Smriti Sahara Football Academy, which currently supports 30 dependent children from challenging backgrounds. Club President Keshavraj Baral highlighted that proceeds from the tournament will fund education, accommodation, and daily football training for the academy's girls.
With the overarching goal of promoting sports development and establishing Pokhara as a sports tourism hub, the tournament continues to enhance the city's identity.
Main sponsors for this year’s tournament include Aha and Rara Noodles by Himshree Foods Pvt Ltd, with support from the Pokhara Metropolitan Municipality, Lumbini Development Bank, and Buddha Air as the official airline. The event also benefits from special support from the National Sports Council Nepal, the All Nepal Football Association, and various local organizations and associations.
Last year, Tribhuvan Army Football Club claimed the title, while Three Star Club Lalitpur finished as the runner-up. The winner received NPR 1.2m, and the runner-up took home NPR 0.6m, along with a shield, medal, and certificate.