Muras Football Tournament Kicks Off in Bishkek with President Sadyr Japarov’s Participation
Bishkek, The Gulf Observer: The Muras Football Tournament, an annual event featuring Kyrgyzstan’s President Sadyr Japarov, began today in Bishkek with much fanfare. The tournament, which has grown significantly in scale since its inception six years ago, brings together 16 teams divided into four groups for a total of 32 matches, including 24 group-stage games and eight final-round matches.
Growing Popularity of the Tournament
President Japarov, who attended the opening ceremony, expressed his delight at the tournament’s growing popularity. “When the tournament first started, only 8–9 teams participated. Now, with 16 teams, it’s clear that this event has captured the interest of many,” he remarked.
The President also emphasized the importance of promoting sports and a healthy lifestyle among the people, particularly the youth. “These matches are not just competitions but also a way to inspire our youth and citizens to engage in sports. In sports, as it should be, the strongest always win. Let the strongest win!” he added.
Diverse Team Participation
The tournament showcases a wide variety of teams, including:
- The President’s team, comprising officials from the Presidential Administration, Cabinet of Ministers, and heads of government agencies.
- Teams representing culture and art figures, business leaders, media personalities and bloggers, sport federations, sports stars, MPs, regional governors, health workers, educators, law enforcement, and members of the Assembly of Peoples of Kyrgyzstan.
Venues for the Matches
The matches are being held at two premier facilities: the newly opened National Football Academy of the Kyrgyz Football Union and the Gazprom-Children Sports and Recreation Center.
Schedule of Final Matches
The tournament will culminate on December 15, with the quarterfinal, semi-final, and final matches taking place on the same day.
The Muras Football Tournament continues to be a symbol of unity and sportsmanship, bringing together people from various walks of life to celebrate their shared passion for football and a healthy lifestyle.
