2025 Carnival becomes the biggest chapter yet Kickerz Turns 10

Over 500 young footballers competed for glory

The Kickerz Football Carnival 2025 made history this June, bringing unmatched energy, inclusivity, and scale to Colombo’s Racecourse Grounds on June 21 and 22. The event marked the 10th anniversary of Kickerz, celebrating a decade of grassroots football development, and the fourth successful edition of the Carnival, now one of Sri Lanka’s most anticipated youth football tournaments.

This milestone event welcomed a record 56 teams across seven categories, with over 500 young footballers, both boys and girls, competing for glory. For the first time ever, the tournament went international, proudly hosting a team from the Maldives a significant step in taking the Carnival to new heights in the South Asian youth football scene.

Age groups included U10, U12, U14, U16, and Girl’s Under-6 and Under-8 categories, showcasing young talent across all levels. With over 2,000 spectators attending each day, the atmosphere was electric filled with competitive spirit, team pride, and community support.

The Kickerz Football Carnival 2025 was made possible through the strong support of its valued sponsors and partners: Lady J, Airtrack, Crescent Fine Foods, Commercial Bank, Cinnamon Hotels, Ninewells Family Wellness, SUN FM, Gold FM, ThePapare, Softwave Quick Print, Barista, Coca-Cola.

These organisations played an instrumental role in executing the tournament from team hospitality and broadcasting to health services, beverages, and print solutions.

Their involvement reflects a shared dedication to youth development, community building, and the growth of football in the region.

As Kickerz celebrates 10 years of grassroots impact, the 2025 Carnival stands as a powerful reminder of what happens when opportunity, passion, and support meet on the pitch. (AO)