Taizhou fans, culture take spotlight at Jiangsu football final

Football fans from Taizhou cheer on the finalists during the 2026 Jiangsu Football City League final in Nanjing. [Photo/Taizhou Daily]

Taizhou made a strong impression at the 2026 Jiangsu Football City League (Suchao) final in Nanjing on Oct 31, with its former champions, fans and local food and cultural displays bringing a distinct Taizhou flavor to the occasion.

Before kickoff at the Nanjing Olympic Sports Center, Zhu Hui, No 11 of Taizhou's team and a player in the inaugural league-winning squad, carried the championship trophy onto the pitch. Representatives of all 13 city teams then took turns carrying it before jointly escorting it to the center of the field.

More than 1,000 football fans from Taizhou, dressed in matching yellow shirts, filled the stands, waving flags and cheering throughout the final. Their presence added to the atmosphere as Wuxi defeated Changzhou 2-1 to claim this year's title.

Hu Jie, Taizhou's No 18, watched the match alongside fellow supporters. Seeing so many Taizhou fans made the trip to Nanjing inspiring, he said. The league has brought cities closer together, and he expressed hoped that Taizhou will return stronger next season.

A Taizhou-themed market outside the stadium offered visitors another taste of the city. Displays featured cultural and creative products, traditional bonsai works and Taizhou morning tea. More than 200 medicinal-herb steamed buns were also handed out for visitors to sample.

The Taizhou-themed market outside the stadium draws large crowds. [Photo/Taizhou Daily]

The market introduced Taizhou's local culture and specialties to football fans, a staff member said, adding that visitors were welcome to explore the city after the final.