The International Premier Kabaddi League (IPKL) has taken a major step toward expanding the sport beyond Asia with the official unveiling of its trophy in Dubai. The IPKL 2026 Trophy Launch marked the beginning of an ambitious project that aims to establish kabaddi as a truly global sport while strengthening its presence across Europe.
Although the tournament will be played in the Netherlands, the organizers chose Dubai as the venue for the grand launch to attract international sponsors, corporate partners, and investors from India, the United Arab Emirates, and Europe.
The International Premier Kabaddi League Launch showcased the league’s vision of taking kabaddi to a wider global audience.
Dubai Becomes the Launchpad
The Dubai Kabaddi Event was organized under the leadership of Dubai-based businessman Mr. Shuza Mehandi, who played an important role in bringing together key stakeholders for the ceremony.
The league itself has been founded by Mr. Sohan Tusir, the founder of the Just Sports Arena Federation. Having successfully managed 13 kabaddi league seasons in India, Tusir brings extensive experience to the new international competition.
The league is officially sanctioned by the Netherlands Kabaddi Federation under the leadership of its President, Mr. Dalbir Singh Sindhu, with continued support from global kabaddi promoter Mr. Ashok Das.
Together, they hope to build a professional league capable of introducing kabaddi to new markets across Europe.
Tournament Heads to the Netherlands
While the IPKL 2026 Trophy Launch took place in Dubai, the matches themselves will be held at Sportcampus Zuiderpark in The Hague, Netherlands.
The tournament is scheduled from August 12 to August 16, 2026, with more than 27 matches planned over five action-packed days.
The competition will feature:
- Six men’s franchise teams.
- Four women’s franchise teams.
The compact format is expected to deliver fast-paced and exciting kabaddi while giving international audiences a chance to experience one of India’s fastest growing sports.
Strong Focus on Quality
The organizers have also focused on maintaining high playing standards.
International player selection trials have already been completed, creating squads featuring players from multiple countries.
Former India coach Hoshar Singh has been appointed as the league’s head coach and will oversee player development, team preparation, and overall technical standards.
League operations are being supported by advisor Sonali Nikam, while former Pro Kabaddi League star Mohit Chhillar attended the launch as a special guest and ambassador for the competition.
His presence is expected to inspire young players participating in the tournament.
A New Chapter for Kabaddi
The teams will begin a ten day training camp during the final week of July before traveling to the Netherlands for the opening match.
The International Premier Kabaddi League Launch represents much more than the start of another tournament. It reflects the growing ambition to make kabaddi a recognized global sport with professional opportunities beyond its traditional markets.
By combining experienced administrators, international players, and strong corporate backing, the organizers hope the league can become Europe’s biggest professional kabaddi competition.
The Dubai Kabaddi Event has already generated excitement ahead of the tournament, and the IPKL 2026 Trophy Launch signals the beginning of a new era for international kabaddi. If successful, the league could open fresh opportunities for players, coaches, and fans while helping the sport continue its rapid global growth.
