China's "Village Super League" draws millions, now eyeing global stage
發佈日期: 2025-05-26 20:00
TVB News
In Rongjiang County of southwest China's Guizhou Province, with a population of 300,000, a grassroots football league has become an unexpected sport and cultural phenomenon.
Known as the "Village Super League" or "Cun Chao," the amateur football tournament played by village teams wooed more than 7 million tourists every year over the past three years. It is expected to attract 10 million visitors this year with plans now to go global.
The "Village Super League" went viral online two years ago. Its local flavour, including ethnic cheerleading squads donning traditional costumes and folk performances, quickly drew a devoted following. Some 250 villages fielded over 100 teams.
At the top-20 match, this fan said rain or shine, as long as their favourite team plays, they'll be here.
And the tournament has grown beyond sport. Tourism has helped accelerate the development of Rongjiang, which was only lifted out of poverty five years ago.
Around half a year after the launch of the "Village Super League" in May 2023, it has attracted about 7.5 million tourists with tourism revenue topping 8 billion yuan. It is expected to woo 10 million tourists this year.
Its organiser said over the past few years, nearly 30 international teams with more than 1,300 players have travelled to Rongjiang to compete. About 10 Hong Kong teams have taken part in friendly matches.
The organiser of Cun Chao is also working with the English Premier League to offer training and player development and now preparing to hold the "Village Super League" World Cup in 2028.
