Hyderabad, February 18, 2026: In an unprecedented celebration of grassroots sporting talent, the Chief Minister’s Cup 2025 across Telangana, drawing a record 5,00,276 lakh registrations and propelling 21,500 athletes into state level competitions across 44 disciplines. From rural villages to premier stadiums in Hyderabad, the mega sporting festival has transformed the state into a vibrant arena of youth energy, competitive spirit, and sporting excellence.

Organized by the Sports Authority of Telangana with a mission to promote rural and grassroots sports, the tournament witnessed competitions at village, mandal, Assembly, and district levels before culminating in the state-level contests.

The competitions are being held at key venues in Hyderabad including Gachibowli Stadium, LB Stadium, Saroornagar Stadium, and water sports facilities at Hussain Sagar Lake, along with events across 10 districts in Telangana. At Gachibowli Stadium alone, 17 sporting disciplines are being conducted, while seven disciplines are scheduled at LB Stadium, with additional competitions distributed across other venues.

Competitions witnessed thrilling contests in athletics, kabaddi, kho-kho, judo, baseball, and other disciplines, showcasing Telangana’s deep reservoir of emerging talent. Young athletes competed with remarkable intensity and determination, cheered on by coaches, officials, and enthusiastic spectators.

“The Chief Minister’s Cup 2025 is not just a sporting event — it is a celebration of Telangana’s vibrant youth and rural strength, promoting from gross roots to global champions" said Dr. A. Sonibala Devi, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, Sports Authority of Telangana. “With record participation of 5,00,276  athletes and 21,500 finalists competing across 44 disciplines, this initiative exemplifies our commitment to identifying talent from every corner of the state and building a structured pathway from grassroots to elite performance. The energy, skill, and determination displayed  reflect Telangana’s sporting promise and our collective resolve to nurture champions of tomorrow.”

Officials further stated that the overwhelming response reflects the growing sports culture in Telangana and the government’s strong commitment to nurturing talent from rural and semi-urban areas. The Chief Minister’s Cup is designed not only as a competitive platform but also as a long-term sports development mission.

The tournament will continue over the coming days, culminating in finals and prize distribution ceremonies. With record participation and high-energy performances, the Chief Minister’s Cup 2025 stands as a landmark sporting initiative—empowering youth, strengthening grassroots development, and reinforcing Telangana’s ambition to emerge as a sporting powerhouse.