The much-anticipated Sikh Games UK are set to return for their second edition this summer, taking place from August 1st to 3rd at Brunel University London, in what promises to be the largest Sikh sporting event in the country.
Founded by Mandeep Kaur Moore, a commercial lawyer and long-time community organiser, the Sikh Games are a grassroots, volunteer-led initiative aimed at promoting health, unity and inclusion across all age groups and backgrounds. Moor, who also organises the annual Vaisakhi celebrations at Trafalgar Square, describes the Games as “a legacy project” rooted in the Sikh values of service, inclusivity and community cohesion.
Picture credit: Sport England
“Sport has the power to unite, regardless of how religious or cultural you are,” she says.
“We wanted to create something that brings people together—whether you’re Sikh or not—and encourages everyone to get fitter, healthier, and more connected.”
The Sikh Games UK were launched five and a half years ago and have since mobilised communities across 35 regions in the UK, from grassroots training groups to full-fledged team formations. Following the inaugural event in 2024 held across Nottingham, Leicestershire and Loughborough—featuring an opening ceremony at Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena—the Games are now headed to the capital for what organisers hope will be their biggest edition yet.
This year’s event kicks off with an opening ceremony on Friday, August 1st at 6pm, held outdoors on the running tracks of Brunel University. The evening will feature traditional Sikh martial arts demonstrations (Gatka), live music performances, and cultural showcases. More details about headline performers are expected to be announced soon.
Picture credit: The Sikh Games Facebook
Sporting competitions begin at 9am daily, spanning multiple venues including Hillingdon Cricket Ground, with additional venues hired due to high demand. The weekend will feature a wide range of sports, including cricket, hockey, athletics, cycling and more, catering to all age groups—from children as young as four years old to seniors in their 60s and 70s.
Last year’s Games saw a groundbreaking partnership with England Hockey, with women from the Sikh community participating in one-to-one training sessions with former England players. This year, organisers have expanded the youth programme, introducing running and tricycle races for toddlers, along with interactive family-friendly activities and community stalls.
True to its community ethos, the Sikh Games are run entirely by volunteers—over 600 across the country—all offering their time as Seva (selfless service). In order to keep the event accessible, ticket prices have been set at £5 for children and £10 for adults for the entire three-day festival, which includes meals, sports participation, and access to the cultural events and tournaments.
“It’s about building something sustainable, something our community can be proud of,” says Mandeep. “But we’re also mindful of cost-of-living pressures, and we never want money to be a barrier. If someone wants to come but can’t afford it, we urge them to reach out—we’ll do our best to help.”
Inspired by the long-running Australian Sikh Games—which attract up to 200,000 people annually—Moor hopes the UK version will one day rival or even surpass those numbers, particularly given the UK’s large Sikh population. But the vision goes beyond just the Sikh community.
“We want our playing fields to reflect the multicultural society we live in,” Mandeep explains. “This is about encouraging ethnic minority participation in mainstream sport, inspiring future generations, and creating a space where diversity is seen, celebrated, and empowered.”
The Games also serve as a platform to nurture talent through a special Sporting Excellence Camp, helping participants develop skills that could lead to professional or elite-level opportunities.
As the countdown begins, Mandeep has one simple message:
“Just come and be part of this movement. Whether you’re an athlete, a parent, a volunteer, or someone who just wants to learn more about the Sikh community—it’s open to all. This is our moment to make history, and we want you to be there with us.”
For tickets, volunteer opportunities, or more information, visit https://thesikhgames.com/
