Players from Qingdao West Coast New Area and Laixi compete in the opening match of the 2026 Qingdao City Football Championship in Qingdao West Coast New Area on Sept 27. [Photo/Guanhai News]

The 2026 Qingdao City Soccer Championship kicked off in Qingdao West Coast New Area on Sept 27, with more than 13,000 spectators turning out for the opening ceremony and first match.

Playing at home at University City Stadium, Qingdao West Coast New Area beat Laixi 2-0, opening the tournament with a victory.

The evening brought together soccer, local culture and entertainment. Music, dance, drone formations and AI-generated visuals showcased Qingdao's coastal character and landmarks across its 10 districts and county-level cities, each represented by a team in the competition.

As a major amateur soccer tournament in Qingdao, the championship features 10 teams competing in an 11-a-side format. The competition begins with a group stage before moving into home-and-away knockout rounds, with the top three teams expected to be decided in early December.

Activities have also been extended beyond the stadium. Public viewing areas have been set up at major commercial venues across West Coast New Area, while match ticket holders can receive discounts at more than 70 local hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions and retailers.

The tournament adds to Qingdao's growing calendar of football events, combining grassroots competition with a wider matchday experience and giving fans another way to explore the coastal city beyond the pitch.