Palestinian Football Association to resume leagues in September

The Palestinian Football Association (PFA) has announced the resumption of sports activities and league competitions starting September 4, following a nearly three-year suspension caused by the conflict in Gaza.

The inaugural tournament will be named the ‘Thousand Martyrs’ Cup’ to honor 1,014 Palestinian athletes killed during the conflict. The competition is expected to involve 226 clubs, including 146 from the West Bank, 44 from the Gaza Strip, and 36 from Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon. Matches are planned to take place simultaneously across these three regions to manage logistical and financial challenges.

PFA President Jibril Rajoub emphasized that sport serves as a symbol of hope and national will despite the difficult conditions created by the war. The association has called on FIFA and other international federations for financial support and protection of the rights of players and clubs to practice sports with dignity. Additionally, the Palestinian national team is scheduled to play a friendly match against China in September as preparation for the upcoming Asian Cup.