The 2026 Bet9ja Foundation Ex-Internationals Cup has received a major financial boost after the Bet9ja Foundation committed ₦40 million towards the second edition of the prestigious football tournament.
The significant investment further highlights the growing recognition of the competition as a unique platform dedicated to celebrating Nigeria’s football legends while inspiring younger generations through the legacy of the game.
The support also reflects the confidence and trust placed in the tournament organizers by Kunle Soname, Chairman of Bet9ja, whose commitment to Nigerian football development continues to attract widespread praise across the sports community.
According to the organizers, the success and organization of the inaugural edition played a major role in convincing the Bet9ja Foundation to significantly increase its support for the 2026 tournament.
The enhanced sponsorship is expected to deliver a bigger experience for players, fans, and football stakeholders across Lagos State and beyond.
Reports indicate that Soname personally embraced the initiative before recommending the project to the Bet9ja Foundation leadership, including Executive Director Gloria Ada Cuomo and Marketing Manager Omotola Oronti, who fully aligned with the vision behind the tournament.
The tournament aims to use the rich history of Nigerian football to create a lasting legacy while empowering young talents through inspiration from former football stars.
Reacting to the development, Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, Gafar Liameed, expressed appreciation for the support from the Bet9ja Foundation and Kunle Soname.
> “We are thankful for the tremendous support from Bet9ja Foundation and the personal interest demonstrated by Honorable Soname. This partnership provides us with the opportunity to honor our legends and utilize their stories to inspire young talents throughout Lagos,” he stated.
Gafar also described Soname as one of the biggest contributors to football development and youth empowerment in Nigeria.
> “Our profound gratitude goes to Honorable Soname, an icon and a tremendous blessing to Nigerian football. His numerous laudable interventions continue to speak directly to youth empowerment and the creation of sustainable opportunities for many young Nigerians,” he added.
The 2026 edition of the Bet9ja Foundation Ex-Internationals Cup will once again feature former Super Eagles stars and football legends in a celebration of football, unity, culture, and legacy.
Defending champions FC Nwosu will return to defend their title, while anticipation continues to build ahead of the official tournament draws scheduled to hold on Friday.
With increased backing and growing national attention, the Ex-Internationals Cup continues to establish itself as one of the most exciting football legacy events in Nigeria.
