A $500,000 individual prize has been added to the upcoming Kashif and Shanghai Football Tournament, with long-time benefactor Monty Lewis stepping forward to reward the competition’s leading goal scorer.
The incentive comes as Guyana’s premier 16-team showpiece prepares for a high-profile return to its traditional home in Linden, competing for a share of an overall $8m prize purse between December 13, 2026 and New Year’s Day 2027.
Speaking at a presentation ceremony alongside tournament co-founders Kashif Muhammad and Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major, Lewis commended the decision to bring the event back to its roots in the mining town while encouraging local stakeholders to rally behind the initiative.
Both Muhammad and Major acknowledged that the top-scorer windfall would provide added motivation for the region’s sharpest forwards.
Launched under the banner “Destination Linden, Football Means Business”, the competition will be staged exclusively in Linden across two venues.
The redesigned Mackenzie Sports Club—where the tournament was first held in 1992—will host the opening matchday on 13 December, as well as fixtures on 20, 25 and 29 December.
Meanwhile, the Bayroc National Stadium will host games on 18, 22 and 26 December before taking centre stage for the grand final on 1 January.
Beyond the action on the pitch, tournament organisers and government officials expect a substantial economic boost for local hospitality, transport, and small business operators throughout the festive period.
The participating clubs, official tournament draw, and full prize breakdown will be unveiled at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on Saturday. (Modified Press Release)
Source: NEW ROOMS SITE
