India to host first-ever Kho Kho World Cup in 2025

The first-ever edition of the Kho Kho World Cup will be held in India in 2025, the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) and the International Kho Kho Federation (IKKF) announced on Wednesday, October 2.

The inaugural edition of the Kho Kho World Cup will see 16 men's teams and as many women's teams from 24 countries take part in the competition.

"Kho Kho has its roots in India, and this World Cup will highlight the rich cultural heritage and competitive spirit of the sport. From starting in the mud, the sport has gone to the mat and has a global presence with 54 countries playing it across the world," a statement from the press release read.

The Kho Kho Federation of India has decided to introduce Kho Kho to around 200 elite schools across 10 cities in the country to ensure more players take up the sport professionally.

The federation has also planned to conduct a membership drive for school students, aimed at having a minimum of 50 lakh players register for the program ahead of the World Cup as part of their promotion.

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Kho Kho World Cup 2025 is a stepping stone to seeing the sport at the Olympics

Mr. Shri Sudhanshu Mittal, president of the Kho Kho Federation of India, is delighted about India hosting the Kho Kho World Cup 2025. The homegrown sport will bring a massive change to the sporting ecosystem in India and will create a buzz among the young generation. He stressed how this tournament will be the first step to the dream of seeing the sport at the Olympics.

“We are incredibly excited to host the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup. This tournament is not just about competition; it’s about bringing nations together, promoting cultural exchange, and showcasing the beauty and intensity of Kho Kho to the world. Our ultimate goal is to see Kho Kho recognized as an Olympic sport by 2032, and this World Cup is the first step towards that dream,” he was quoted as saying in the press release.