Datuk Mokhtar Dahari Cup renamed for Sultan Selangor’s Silver Jubilee for 2026 edition

Shah Alam, September 14 — The highly anticipated Datuk Mokhtar Dahari Cup has officially undergone a transformation, becoming the 2026 Sultan Selangor’s Silver Jubilee Cup Football Championship in honor of the Sultan of Selangor's 25th reign anniversary. Organising Committee Chairman Datuk Emran Kadir explained that this rebranding signifies an elevation in the tournament's prestige and a shift to a carnival-style format inspired by the World Cup, featuring 48 school teams from across the state.

"This tournament was commanded by the Sultan of Selangor to be held in conjunction with His Royal Highness’s 25th Silver Jubilee celebration," stated Emran, emphasizing the only modification from the previous cup edition is the increase in teams, now reaching 48. The state government's substantial support, amounting to RM500,000, will be distributed as initial capital to all participating teams.

Each school will receive RM1,200 at the start, with an additional RM1,000 for each subsequent round leading up to the semi-finals. Emran clarified that this rebranding is specific to this year, aligned with Tuanku’s 25 years on the throne, and will revert to its original name, the Datuk Mokhtar Dahari Cup post-anniversary. This initiative, Tuanku's personal idea, will also see the trophy personally contributed by the Sultan himself.

Ahmad Fadzli Ahmad Tajuddin, Selangor State Secretary, highlighted the sponsorship as a testament to the state government's unwavering support in nurturing the talent and potential of young players, seen as the future stars of the state's football scene. Emran Kadir underscored priorities such as talent management and player discipline to ensure seamless operations and safety throughout the competition held in 12 districts.

The tournament's inaugural match, serving as a prelude, is set for September 22, culminating in the final showdown on October 31 at the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) Stadium, where the Sultan of Selangor will preside over the closing ceremony. The 2026 edition offers a total cash prize of RM12,000 for the champion, with subsequent positions securing RM9,000, RM7,000, and RM5,000 respectively.