The first-ever Kabaddi World Cup held outside Asia begins on Monday with the seven-day event across the West Midlands set to showcase the sport’s remarkable global growth – up to 500 million are set to tune in worldwide.
Supported by World Kabaddi, hosted by the England Kabaddi Association and delivered by the British Kabaddi League (BKL), tickets are still available for the men’s and women’s competition, which is set to feature the world’s best players with nearly 50 matches held across host local authorities of Birmingham, Coventry, Walsall and Wolverhampton as well as being streamed globally via channels including BBC iPlayer, the Olympic Channel,
DD Sports and Willow TV.
Nations from around the world will participate with the tournament underlining the sport’s growing global recognition and appeal.
Serving as a powerful symbol of inclusion in sport, the competition is set to celebrate the diversity of the West Midlands region, engaging people from all backgrounds.
Marking the start of the championships, the opening ceremony will be a dynamic and inclusive celebration, bringing together athletes, artists, and the local community in a showcase of music, dance, and cultural pride.
The ceremony will feature live music from students at Wolverhampton Music Service, a grand athlete entrance and energetic dance
performances from locally-based Bollywood Dreams Dance Company designed to honour the heritage of kabaddi and the communities that support it.
Prem Singh, Chief Executive of the BKL, commented: ‘We are getting closer to fulfilling a decades-long dream of thousands of kabaddi players by bringing the Paddy Power Kabaddi World Cup to the West Midlands region.
‘We are confident the World Cup will create even more opportunities for communities to engage with a sport deeply rooted in its cultural heritage, not least through our partnership with our official charity partner,
Sporting Equals.’
Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: ‘This is a huge moment for the West Midlands. With millions watching, we’ll show the world why our region is a top destination for global events and a great place to do business.
‘This tournament will bring thousands of overseas fans, boosting our economy and celebrating the vibrant South Asian communities that are such a vital part of our region.
‘The Paddy Power Kabaddi World Cup 2025 will be more than just a sporting event – it’s a celebration of the diversity, energy, and spirit that makes the West Midlands truly special.’
