Experience the passion as 4th Village Super League kicks off!

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Players from Dali Village (in red) and Bawang Village play in the opening match of the Village Super League in Rongjiang County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, on January 2, 2026. /IC

The opening ceremony of the 4th Guizhou Village Super League takes place in Rongjiang County, southwest China's Guizhou Province on January 2, 2026. /IC

People take part in the traditional Dong Duoye dance at the opening of the Village Super League in Rongjiang County, southwest China's Guizhou Province on January 2, 2026. The Duoye is a traditional celebration of the Dong ethnic group, where people gather in a circle to sing prayers. /IC

People from the Dong ethnic group take part in a grand parade for the Village Super League in Rongjiang County, southwest China's Guizhou Province on January 2, 2026. /IC

People from the Miao ethnic group take part in a grand parade for the Village Super League in Rongjiang County, southwest China's Guizhou Province on January 2, 2026. /IC

People watch a fireworks display at the opening ceremony of the Village Super League in Rongjiang County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, on January 2, 2026. /IC

The fourth season of the legendary Village Super League (Cun Chao), kicked off on Friday in Rongjiang County, Guizhou Province. The opening match between Dali Village and Bawang Village set the stage for a record-breaking year, as the tournament expands to a staggering 137 village teams — more than double its 2024 size.

The 2026 season features a rigorous two-phase structure: a preliminary round running from January 2 to April 19, followed by a high-stakes knockout stage for the top 20 teams. By the time a champion is crowned in late July, 98 matches will have been played.

Beyond the pitch, the Village Super League has become a global sensation and a powerful economic engine. Attracting over 9.8 million tourists and generating 11.15 billion yuan in annual revenue, it has evolved into a premier platform for international exchange, hosting friendly matches with players from football powerhouses like France, Argentina, and Brazil. More than just a game, it is the vibrant heart of the Miao and Dong ethnic communities, blending high-energy football with world-class cultural heritage.

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