“Football means business”:

Kashif and Shanghai officially launches Linden-based year-end tournament
January 1, 2027 in Linden is sure to bring nostalgia to the mining town as the Kashif and Shanghai Organisation returns to its roots and the place of its renowned tournament’s birth for the 2026-27 edition.

Saturday evening’s cocktail launch brought together organisers Kashif Muhammad and Aubrey “Shanghai” Major, alongside Minister within the Culture, Youth and Sport Ministry, Steven Jacobs, in addition to other stakeholders and members of Linden’s business community at the Major’s Villa in Amelia’s Ward, Linden.
The year-end competition, set to kick off on Sunday, December 13 will utilise two spanking new venues in the mining town – the Bayroc National Stadium, which was commissioned earlier this year, and the Mackenzie Stadium, which is nearing completion.
The tournament will begin at the Mackenzie Stadium with additional game days at that venue scheduled for December 20, 25 and 29. Meanwhile at Bayroc, game days will be on December 18, 22 and 26, with the grand finale scheduled for Friday, January 1.
However, beyond the game, the Kashif and Shanghai Organisation will be focused on the business aspect of the sport and putting the spotlight on the mining town.
“With Linden being Destination #1 for the Kashif & Shanghai 2026 journey, the tournament is expected to bring an influx of players, supporters, officials, visitors and football enthusiasts into the town. That movement of people presents opportunities for businesses throughout Linden – from accommodation and transportation to restaurants, supermarkets, entertainment, retail and other services,” the organisation shared.
It added in a social media post, “The cocktail launch, therefore, served as more than just the unveiling of another football tournament. It was an invitation to Linden’s business community to play a role in the venture and recognise the opportunities that come with hosting an event of this magnitude.
“For local entrepreneurs, the message is clear: when football comes to town, the entire community can benefit.”
Meanwhile, Minister Jacobs expressed, “Our Government will give its full support to the return of this tournament and its continued growth. Beyond the economic impact, Kashif & Shanghai provides our young footballers with a competitive platform to showcase their talent, attract the attention of scouts and potentially open doors to greater opportunities.”
This year’s return to Linden will mark a significant milestone for the Kashif and Shanghai Organisation, which will be celebrating 37 years of the tournament in Linden, having had the inaugural tournament back in 1989.
Some $8 million in cash and prizes will be up for grabs in the year-end competition.