Gangtok, August 3: Risers FC emerged as champions of the inaugural Sikkim Futsal League 2026, defeating fierce competition to lift the title at the closing ceremony held at the M24 Futsal Arena in Deorali on Sunday.
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| Risers FC celebrate after being crowned champions of the inaugural Sikkim Futsal League 2026 at the M24 Futsal Arena in Deorali, Gangtok. The champions lifted the trophy and received a cash prize of ₹1 lakh after finishing ahead of Beyul FC on goal difference. (Image: DIO Gangtok) |
Organised by the Futsal Association of Sikkim (FAS) under the aegis of the Sikkim Football Association (SFA), the maiden edition of the league concluded with Risers FC winning the championship trophy, medals, and a cash prize of ₹1 lakh. Beyul FC finished runners-up after narrowly missing the title on goal difference and received ₹50,000.
The closing ceremony was attended by DIG, Range Gangtok and Pakyong, Tenzing Loden Lepcha, as the chief guest, along with officials and dignitaries of the Futsal Association of Sikkim.
Several individual awards were presented during the event. Chultim of Risers FC won the Golden Glove, Sudeep Gurung of Brothers FC claimed the Golden Boot, while Bikash Jairu of Risers FC received the Golden Ball award.
Speaking at the ceremony, FAS President Dr. Thakela Bhutia described the inaugural league as a successful beginning for futsal in the state. He thanked the ten participating teams, officials, volunteers, sponsors, and partners for contributing to the smooth conduct of the tournament, which began on June 24.
FAS Advisor Palden Bhutia said the league would encourage young people to take up sports and support Sikkim's campaign against drug abuse by providing a positive platform for youth development.
FAS Technical Head Bishal Chettri said the competition was designed to improve players' understanding of futsal while serving as a platform for grassroots development and talent identification. He expressed hope that more players from Sikkim would go on to represent the state and the country at higher levels.
General Secretary Nishant Das Rai said the Association intends to make the tournament an annual event and strengthen future editions to develop competitive futsal talent across the state.
As part of the league, the Futsal Association also organised a CPR training programme for players and officials in collaboration with STNM Hospital, promoting emergency preparedness and life-saving skills in sports.
The inaugural league featured 10 teams, providing local players with valuable competitive experience and helping promote the growth of futsal in Sikkim.
