Guwahati Hosts FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour, Northeast Emerges as India's Sports Hub

• Guwahati hosted the FIFA World Cup Trophy tour by Coca-Cola, drawing over 10,000 fans, showcasing immense fan passion in India's Northeast.
• The event highlighted the Northeast's growing prominence as a sporting epicenter, known for its residents' dedication to sports like football, cricket, badminton, boxing, and weightlifting.
• North East United FC has made significant strides in football, while players like Riyan have joined the national cricket team, and Guwahati boasts a first-rate badminton center of excellence.
• Olympic medalists Lovlina (boxing) and Mira (weightlifting) have further boosted the region's sporting profile, inspiring youth.
• Brazilian World Cup winner Gilberto Silva emphasized the importance of sports facilities for youth development, expressing hope that the tour would inspire more football participation in India.

Why It Matters: The FIFA World Cup Trophy tour in Guwahati underscores the Northeast's rising status as India's sports epicenter.