A new season of the 2026 "Village Super League" officially launched in Rongjiang County, southwest China's Guizhou Province on Friday night, ushering in a winter tourism boom tied to the event.
The fourth season of "Village Super League", a grassroots soccer tournament originating in Rongjiang, kicked off with a match between Dali Village and Bawang Village.
This year's edition has expanded to 137 village teams, up from 62 in 2024 and 108 in 2025. The tournament first gained public attention in 2023 when 20 local village teams competed between May and July.
The 2026 tournament will follow a two-phase format: a preliminary round from January 2 to April 19, followed by a knockout stage featuring the top 20 teams beginning in late April. The champion is scheduled to be crowned by late July after 98 matches.
"I hope to perform better and be of greater help to my team," said a player.
"I definitely have confidence. I believe in our team!" said another player.
During the opening ceremony, an ethnic cultural performance and a drone show were staged, allowing citizens and tourists to enjoy both the excitement of football match as well as the charm of local culture.
Additionally, competitions and performances will be held every weekend, offering visitors a multidimensional experience through the integration of sports and culture.
"We actually all work in Guiyang, not Rongjiang, buy we made a special trip back together to see our 'Village Super League' and our hometown, Rongjiang," said a tourist.
"I wish our 'Village Super League' continued success, and I warmly welcome friends from across the country to visit Rongjiang and enjoy the fireworks and the 'Village Super League'!" said a local resident.
China's Village Super League boosts tourism in Guizhou Province
