1 Sep 2024

In a thrilling display of sportsmanship and unity, East London Mosque (ELM) is proud to announce the successful conclusion of the inaugural Minaret Cup. The first-ever charity football tournament, organised by ELM in collaboration with Muslim Aid, brought together Imams and Huffadh from across the UK for an unforgettable 11-a-side match yesterday.

Imams, shuyukh, huffaz, and scholars from across the UK, including London, Blackburn, Bradford, and Batley, competed in a spirited contest watched by 200 spectators. The winning team, Imams All-Stars, which included ELM's own Shaykh Syed Anisul Haque, Sheikh Muzzammil Ahmad, and Imam Abdul Rahman, triumphed over Imams United with an impressive score of 8-3.

Following the match, a closing ceremony featuring a Nasihah by Sheikh Khidr and an awards ceremony was held. Medals were given to all players, with the Imams All Stars receiving the coveted Minaret Cup trophy 2024. 

The event's charitable purpose was a key highlight, with participating Imams and Huffadh raising over £21,000 for humanitarian aid in Palestine through this new initiative.

Reflecting on the success, Junaid Ahmed, CEO of East London Mosque, said: "The Minaret Cup represents a unique and exciting initiative that brings together Imams and Huffadh from various backgrounds and schools of thought while showcasing the true spirit of Islamic brotherhood uniting religious leaders from different Masajid across the country."

Looking ahead with optimism, Ahmed added, "Insha Allah, this is just the beginning. We envision the Minaret Cup growing yearly, reaching bigger venues and attracting more participants.”

ELM's Imam, Shaykh Syed Anisul Haque, who played a major role in organising the match, offered a light-hearted reflection on the event: "This tournament reminds us that Imams are humans too, as well as role models. It was an honour to organise such an event, bringing together faith leaders nationwide. We hope this initiative will strengthen connections within our communities."

ELM chairman Abdul-Hayee Murshad expressed his enthusiasm for the event: "Alhamdulillah, this was a great achievement for unity and leadership for the community from our youthful Imams and scholars. I pray that this can be built upon so that all the Imams across our country can play the desired leading role for social and spiritual transformation. I thank everyone involved and pray that Allah rewards abundantly."

As we celebrate this successful inaugural event, we at East London Mosque look forward to the Minaret Cup becoming an annual fixture, fostering unity, promoting health, and raising funds for important causes.

We extend our sincere and heartfelt congratulations to all participants and express our gratitude to everyone who contributed to this event's success. The Minaret Cup has set a new standard for community engagement and brotherhood through sportsmanship.