The week long champions to witness global 24 teams

The Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI), in partnership with the International Kho Kho Federation, officially announced the dates and  city for the inaugural edition of the Kho Kho World Cup 2025. To be held between 13th and 19th January 2025, in New Delhi, the groundbreaking tournament promises to showcase nations' beloved traditional Indian sports on the global stage.

To mark the momentous occasion, the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) unveiled the logo for the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup and the tagline #TheWorldGoesKho.

Making this ancient Indian game truly international. The tournament will feature an impressive lineup of 24 nations including Asian power houses India, Iran , with both Men's and Women's teams competing for world supremacy. The championship structure includes 16 teams in each division, setting the stage for an intense battle.

The historic championship represents a massive leap for Kho Kho, transforming it from a beloved local sport to a global phenomenon. With India leading this sporting revolution, the 2025 World Cup promises to be an unforgettable celebration of speed, strategy, and sporting excellence.  Further the successful conduct of the tournament will elevate Kho-Kho to the international stage, helping to secure its future as an Olympic sport by 2032, marking a major milestone in the history of the game.

KKFI President Sudhanshu Mittal captured the spirit of the moment with his passionate address and said, “Kho Kho is a sport of our country's mud. So, we are very proud to bring this sport to the mat. A big thank you to the federation which has worked hard to ensure that Kho Kho becomes an international sport. We first brought the sport to its fans through the Ultimate Kho Kho League, and now, it is time to take things to the next step with the First Kho Kho World Cup".

Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, who graced the event said, “Kho Kho has been a part of our country's history from the time of the Mahabharata. The Government of India has been promoting as many indigenous games, and hosting the inaugural edition of the Kho Kho World Cup in 2025 is a right step in that direction. A big congratulations to the KKFI for their endeavours in different fields, especially sports science, as this takes the level of the game to another level".

Nishant Pitti, CEO & Co-founder of EaseMyTrip  on the occasion added, “We are excited to be the official partner for the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup in 2025. This event marks a significant step not only in showcasing the dynamic spirit of Kho Kho but also in promoting its inclusion on the global stage, with aspirations to bring it to the Olympics and Asian Games. Just as EaseMyTrip strives for excellence in the travel industry, we are committed to supporting the sport’s journey to international prominence". 

The announcement ceremony also featured a spectacular exhibition match between Team Maharashtra and the Rest of India. The edge of the seat thriller saw Maharashtra edge past their rivals 26-24.

Photo Cover : Key Dignitaries including Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports along with KKFI’s President - Sudhanshu Mittal, Gen. Secretary - M S Tyagi and Treasurer- Surender Kumar Bhutiyani, CEO & Co-founder of EaseMyTrip- Nishant Pitti among others

Photo Above : Team Maharashtra and the Rest of India played exhibition match on the occasion