Real Lona FC emerged champions of the Kargil District Football League 2026, defeating United Football Club Gongma 3–0 in the grand finale held at the Astro Turf Ground, Kurbathang, on July 28.

The tournament, organised by the Kargil Football Association under the affiliation of the Ladakh Football Association, began on July 18 and featured 14 top football teams from across Kargil district. Over several weeks, the league showcased exceptional talent, sportsmanship and the growing popularity of football among the district's youth.

Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Altaf Hussain, attended the closing ceremony as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries present included Councillor Taisuru Mohd Hadi, Councillor Shargole Mohd Jawed, Kargil Football Association President Hani Hanief, and NHPC representatives Ranjan Kumar, DGM (Electrical), Santosh Sourabh, GSM (HR), and Ramautar Chauhan, Group Senior Manager.

Congratulating both the winning and runner-up teams, Altaf Hussain praised the Kargil Football Association for successfully organising the tournament and promoting sports among the youth. He highlighted the importance of sports in fostering physical and mental well-being and encouraged young athletes to balance their sporting ambitions with education.

On the occasion, the Executive Councillor announced financial assistance from his Untied Funds, allocating ₹50,000 to the organising committee, ₹30,000 to champions Real Lona FC, and ₹20,000 to runners-up United Football Club Gongma for the purchase of sports equipment and promotion of sporting activities.

Players and organisers also submitted memorandums seeking improved infrastructure at the Astro Turf Ground, including installation of floodlights, construction of toilets and other essential facilities. Responding positively, Altaf Hussain assured that the demands would be taken up with the concerned authorities for necessary action.

Councillor Mohd Hadi congratulated both finalist teams and appreciated the organisers for conducting a successful league. He also assured full support for the development of football infrastructure and the promotion of sports in the district.

The Kargil Football Association expressed gratitude to the tournament's title sponsor, Acme Ladakh Trade Hub, for its support. It also acknowledged the contributions of sponsors including Karims Kargil, Ladakh Space, R2 Enterprise, Hotel Chhutuk Heights, Hotel Royal Gasho, Zeenat Ice Cream, Hotel Maryul Kargil, and Haji Abdul Rehman Balti and Sons.

The Association further thanked the Chief Medical Officer, Kargil, for providing medical support and the Senior Superintendent of Police, Kargil, for ensuring security arrangements throughout the tournament, contributing to its smooth and successful conduct.