Sports
SJFI Golden Jubilee convention returns to Delhi
Hero MotoCorp titles four-day event from March 13-16 with 23 brand partners.
MUMBAI: Delhi’s ready to host the biggest sports media party in 50 years because when SJFI turns golden, even the headlines get a standing ovation. The Sports Journalists Federation of India (SJFI) is bringing its National Convention back to the capital for the first time in over two decades, and this edition is celebrating its Golden Jubilee in style. Hosted by the Delhi Sports Journalists Association (DSJA) from March 13-16, 2026, the four-day event has secured Hero Motocorp as title sponsor, underscoring strong corporate confidence in India’s premier gathering of sports media professionals.
Hero Motocorp executive vice president for global business & product planning Sanjay Bhan said, “Promoting sporting excellence across disciplines has been an integral part of our journey. We are delighted to be the Title Sponsor of the Golden Jubilee celebrations of SJFI, an opportunity to support athletes and celebrate the fraternity that chronicles India’s sporting journey.”
The convention has attracted an impressive lineup of 23 partners, including TCM Sports, Sony Sports Network, Punjab Kings, Red Bull, Delhi Capitals, DDCA, Jindal Steel, Rajasthan United FC, Archery Association of India, Svayam, RPL, PEFI, SG Sports, WordsWork Communications Consulting, Modern Pythian Games, JK Tyre, DDA, Artsmith Concepts & Vision, Adimazes, Aabhawater, VIDA and ESGF. Strong backing also comes from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and International Sports Press Association (AIPS).
DSJA Secretary Sabi Hussain said, “Hosting the 50-year milestone celebration is a huge honour. The incredible backing from our brand partners shows how powerful the Indian sports media network has become.”
TCM Sports managing director Lokesh Sharma added, “It is an honour for TCM Sports to host the SJFI Convention 2026. Journalists have a vital role in documenting the history of sport and bringing stories to millions of fans. We are proud to welcome distinguished members of the sports media fraternity.”
The packed programme blends professional dialogue with sporting action and networking. Highlights include a Grand Sports Conclave hosted by TCM Sports featuring top administrators and Olympic icons, the JK Bose Inter-Zonal T20 Cricket Tournament, AC Bali Table Tennis Tournament, basketball, futsal and golf putting competitions, family and youth engagement activities such as the Modern Pythian Games and Red Bull gaming station, plus a prize distribution ceremony with distinguished dignitaries.
In a milestone year for Indian sports media, the Golden Jubilee convention isn’t just marking 50 years, it’s proving that when journalists, brands and sport come together, the real winners are the stories that keep inspiring the nation.
Sports
Rugby Premier League 2026 to be held in Hyderabad
Second edition returns in Rugby 7s format from 16 to 28 June at Gachibowli Stadium.
MUMBAI: Hyderabad is all set to tackle a new sporting challenge, the Rugby Premier League is coming to town, and this time it promises even more pace, power and passion. GMR Sports, in partnership with Rugby India, has announced that the second edition of the Rugby Premier League (RPL) will be staged at the Gachibowli Stadium in Hyderabad from 16 to 28 June 2026.
Following a successful debut in Mumbai last year, the league returns in the fast-paced Rugby 7s format. All six franchises from the inaugural season will compete again, bringing together top Indian and international talent to deliver high-quality, action-packed rugby for fans.
The shift to Hyderabad aligns with GMR Sports’ growing commitment to building world-class sporting infrastructure in the city. It also follows the group’s recent MoU with the Government of Telangana to develop a Satellite Sports City within Bharat Future City.
Government of Telangana special chief secretary (Youth Advancement, Tourism & Culture & Sports), IAS Jayesh Ranjan welcomed the league, saying Hyderabad’s emergence as a global sporting destination reflects the state’s long-term vision.
Rugby India President Rahul Bose emphasised the league’s continuous improvement, “With everything one does in life, the quest is to always do better, be better, deliver better.” He promised a superior fan experience, higher quality rugby, and a stronger television and OTT product in 2026.
GMR Sports CEO Satyam Trivedi highlighted Hyderabad’s excellent sports infrastructure, connectivity and passionate fan base as ideal for the league. “One of our franchise partners is rooted in Hyderabad, underscoring the city’s pivotal role in our long-term vision for rugby in India,” he added.
Sports Authority of Telangana, vice chairman & managing director, IFS A. Sonibala Devi noted that hosting the RPL will strengthen the state’s high-performance ecosystem and provide valuable exposure to emerging talent.
With elite competition, a proven format and a new energetic host city, the 2026 Rugby Premier League is shaping up to be a thrilling chapter in the growth of rugby across India. Get ready, Hyderabad rugby is about to touch down in style.
