The AIUB World Cup 2026 officially began on 28 July with an opening ceremony at the American International University-Bangladesh (AIUB) campus.

The ceremony was attended by Nadia Anwar, Founder Member and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of AIUB, alongside Professor Manzur H Khan, Proctor; Dr Ziarat H Khan, Deputy Director of Student Services and Welfare; Md Joynal Abedin, Coordinator of the Office of Sports; as well as students, faculty members and administrative officials.

In her opening remarks, Nadia Anwar praised the Office of Sports for organising the tournament and thanked the volunteers and participating teams for their commitment.

She said the tournament serves not only as a sporting competition but also as a platform for students to develop teamwork, discipline and sportsmanship.

This year’s tournament features 48 departmental teams, reflecting the growing popularity of the football championship as a platform for student engagement and interdepartmental collaboration.

All matches are being streamed live through the official Facebook page of AIUB’s Office of Sports, allowing wider public engagement throughout the tournament.

The grand final is scheduled to be held on 9 August.