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🇳🇵 Nepal /Sports

World Cup fever grips Kathmandu: Jerseys, memories, and dreams of glory

From Kathmandu Post · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Context piece
  • Fans in Kathmandu are embracing the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with vendors selling jerseys and venues screening matches.
  • Supporters are buying jerseys to show allegiance to teams like Argentina, Brazil, and Portugal, reminiscing about past tournaments and dreaming of Nepal's future participation.
  • The World Cup atmosphere in Nepal is described as a festive gathering, akin to a pilgrimage, highlighting the passion for football despite the national team's absence from the games.

In Kathmandu, the 2026 FIFA World Cup has ignited a fervent atmosphere, transforming the Nepali capital into a hub of football passion. Roadside vendors display team jerseys, while restaurants and bars broadcast matches nightly, drawing fans eager to support their favorite nations.

These teams always perform on the big stage. I want an Argentina jersey because that's been my team for so long, but these other teams are impressive as well, they are all winners.

— Ramesh SubediA 54-year-old customer from Bhaktapur explaining his jersey purchases.

The excitement is palpable as customers flock to stores, seeking to don the colors of teams like Argentina, Brazil, and Portugal. Ramesh Subedi, a 54-year-old supporter of Argentina since 1986, likens the World Cup to football's 'Kumbh Mela,' a sacred gathering. He fondly recalls watching past tournaments and dreams of the day Nepal might compete on the global stage.

I think I will get a Brazil kit, I like the country.

— A 20-year-old college studentDescribing her choice of team jersey.

Younger fans are also getting into the spirit. A 20-year-old college student, new to the World Cup experience, is considering a Brazil kit, drawn to the country's flair. Meanwhile, 21-year-old Rohit Tamang is on the hunt for a specific Norway away jersey, viewing it as a memento of the games. Musician Sunny Mahat, though not a fervent fan himself, understands the deep connection people have with jerseys, remembering communal World Cup viewings in his youth.

I have been looking for the Norway away kit. I saw they have the home kit, but I am looking for the away one; it’s nicer. I hope I can find it. having a jersey is a ‘chino’ of having watched the games.

— Rohit TamangA 21-year-old college student discussing his search for a specific jersey.

Jersey sellers in New Road are capitalizing on this blend of loyalty, superstition, and passion. Businesses like Jersey Pasal Nepal, run by a husband-and-wife team since 2015, are integral to this festive ecosystem, catering to the emotional investment fans have in the world's biggest football event.

Not everyone had a colour TV like today. So we would all gather at someone's place and watch the games. It was an opportunity to socialise and talk to people.

— Sunny MahatA musician recalling past World Cup viewing experiences.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathmandu Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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