World Oil and Gas Cup 2025 kicks off in Baku with 12 teams
Two tournament categories highlight both emerging and veteran football talent
DUBAI: The World Oil and Gas Cup 2025 commenced this morning at the ASK Arena in Baku, Azerbaijan, marking the debut of an international 7-a-side football tournament tailored for the energy sector.
With the participation of 12 teams representing major oil and gas companies from Asia, Africa, and Europe, the event is scheduled to run from 9th to 12th May.
A grand opening ceremony saw the presence of numerous industry officials, executives, and football enthusiasts. The tournament was officially inaugurated by Jamal Al-Ghandour, Head of the Referees Committee and a key member of the Organising Committee, who cut the ribbon to signal the beginning of the competition.
Two competitive tiers
This inaugural edition features two main categories: the Elite category and the Masters category. The Elite division is composed of seven teams, including host nation squads SOCAR, SOCAR-KBR, AzeriQaz, and Zafar Group, alongside Petroleum Development Oman, OQ Group from Oman, and Germany’s Zien Group.
The Masters division caters to players over the age of 40 and features five teams: ENPPI (Egypt), Zien Group (Germany), Zafar Group (Azerbaijan), Petroleum Development Oman, and Abraj Energy from Oman. Each match spans 30 minutes, split into two 15-minute halves, ensuring fast-paced and dynamic play.
Future ambitions
Ali Al-Maani, Chairman of the Organising Committee, highlighted the strategic significance of this first edition. He described it as a pivotal starting point that sets the stage for future editions, noting the Cup’s ability to foster global partnerships and inter-company engagement within the oil and gas sector.
Looking ahead, Al-Maani stated that efforts are already underway to plan and elevate the second edition of the Cup. The Committee aims to draw even broader participation, particularly from Gulf countries and international energy corporations, further establishing the event as a key fixture on the corporate sports calendar.